We Are Here To Listen.
After Abortion
Some women feel relief after an abortion, while others experience negative disturbances. These reactions can be immediate or occur many years later. Post-abortion stress can be influenced by factors such as a woman’s age, length of pregnancy, previous mental health, religious or cultural beliefs, or whether she was pressured into an abortion.
Post Abortion Stress is described as the inability to:
- Process the painful thoughts and emotions about a crisis pregnancy and subsequent abortion—guilt, anger, and sorrow.
- Identify the loss that has occurred.
- Come to peace with self and others.
If you are having stress or grief following an abortion, you may have noticed some of the following reactions:
- Sadness
- Feeling compelled to conceal an abortion
- Experiencing prolonged depression
- Psychological “numbing”
- Disturbing thoughts about babies and abortion
- Lingering guilt and shame
- Believing you are unworthy
- Avoiding relationships or struggling with intimacy
- Reacting physically and emotionally when abortion is mentioned
- Anxiety over fertility or childbearing issues
- Alcohol and drug abuse
- Engaging in self-destructive behavior
- Thoughts of suicide
You can talk about these reactions. It is beneficial to your emotional and mental health to express yourself in a safe and confidential environment. Some seek our help, hoping to resolve feelings of guilt, anxiety and depression. Others are concerned about relationship difficulties since the abortion and are hoping to mend broken bridges. Still others have kept silent for years and for whatever reason decide that it’s time to speak with someone.
Whatever your situation, there is a place for you to sort out your thoughts and feelings and to heal. The space we provide is non-judgmental. You will be cared for.
If you or someone you know may need support after abortion, be experiencing Post Abortion Stress, please contact our Post Abortion Community Services at 604-525-0999 or info@pacscanada.org. Individual counselling, support groups, and abortion recovery weekend retreats are available.
Peer and professional counselling services are free and confidential.