If you’re struggling after an abortion, you’re not alone. It’s common to feel a range of emotions. While everyone’s experience after an abortion is different, studies have shown negative mental health side effects are common. The British Journal of Psychiatry reported that women who have had an abortion experienced an 81% increased risk of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Another study published by Cureus Journal of Medical Science shows that pressure to undergo an abortion is linked with adverse mental and emotional outcomes.
Whatever the circumstances surrounding your abortion, our team of registered nurses and trained peer advocates understand what you may be going through. Here are three ways you can seek healing after an abortion:
1. Begin self-guided recovery.
Support After Abortion offers online resources to guide you through the recovery process. They have printable worksheets and videos available on their website. This is a great resource for getting started in your recovery journey. If you’re not comfortable reaching out to someone or discussing your experience with someone, Support After Abortion allows you to begin working towards healing fully on your terms.
2. Meet with a mentor.
There are countless women who have walked this road of recovery before you, and they want to help. The Pregnancy Network can connect you with a trained volunteer mentor who has completed Abortion Recovery and understands what you’re going through first-hand. If you’re comfortable, hearing someone else’s experience gives you the invaluable perspective that you’re not alone. Seeing someone experience healing can provide the encouragement you need to keep going when things are difficult.
3. Join an Abortion Recovery group.
The Pregnancy Network can connect you with an Abortion Recovery small group in the Triad. A group allows you to link arms with women who are currently on their healing journey, just like you. An Abortion Recovery group is a judgement-free zone; each woman in the group has different experiences, and it can be helpful to gain different insights as you journey together towards healing.
You’re not alone.
One or multiple of these options may be helpful to you as you process your abortion experience. We’re here to connect you with resources and support every step of the way. Visit our website to make an appointment and get started.
Chloe Belk
Chloe is a Communications Coordinator at The Pregnancy Network.