Rape Support Group

I saw the movie Savages with my dad two days ago, it was suppose to be a treat for me because we had missed being together for the 4th of July. However, there was a rape scene, and I held and composed myself the best I could, and have been doing so the past few days because I didn't want to worry anybody, but I couldn't get the scene out of my head - it triggered these flash backs and I can't get them out of my head. I can't -it just replays and replays and I'm so close to losing it, I can only hold the tears back for so long, and I don't know how to deal. I usually cut myself to go into a blank state, but I'm trying to stop. Right now I'm just biting my hand trying to hold it all back.

How do I stop these flashbacks?

Do I just face them?

It makes me physically ill when they hit.

I'm just...please, give me anything, just talk to me, distract me, I want them to stop.

I know where you're coming from. I'm sorry that it triggered you so intensely that it's carrying over for days. I've felt that too. The slightest thing can bring a flood of emotion and confusion.

I've also resorted to cutting when things got too overwhelming.

You've got to let yourself feel it. Don't try to hold back the tears or frustration. You'll never alleviate yourself from them if you don't. I'm finally starting to learn that the cutting was me trying to face the pain with more pain...and that just will never solve anything.

The best advice I can give is just what I do, which is write. Don't even think...just put a pencil to paper and let it flow. It's amazing the weight that's lifted afterward. And it doesn't mean that the feelings won't come back, but at least you can sort through them. That's just what works for me though...I can't say for sure that it will be right for you. Just try and listen to yourself (mind and body). If you try not to restrict yourself then I think you'll find your own personal method of coping when things get heavy.

Message me anytime. I hope you feel better.

Post edited by: belle92, at: 07/09/2012 12:47 AM

I'm so sorry you had to see that. How were you to know anyways? If you go to a movie again you may want to do a search to find out about rape scenes. I know I can't handle them still. If I'm with people I'll excuse myself to use the restroom or if I'm with someone close who knows what happened I'll close my eyes and plug my ears. Of course if your at home you can skip right through the bad parts. Belle92 gave some good advice. You won't feel this way forever. The movie triggered you and brought up a lot of emotions. Remember that emotions are just that. Emotions. They can't harm you but you feel as if they will. Write, Walk, run, plant something, anything you can do to get through it besides self-harm. I'm sure you probably know a lot of alternatives to that by now right? I know, they don't feel the same but you will get through this. Thankyou for letting others on the forum know about the movie. It was brave of you to sit through it. I'm so sorry.

PM me anytime you want to talk.

clemaire

The same thing happened to me when I went to see the Girl with the Dragon Tatoo. I had no idea there was such a violent rape scene so I made the best of the situation and studied the wall instead. It is very uncomfortable and don't be afraid to make up an excuse to leave.

I would also recommend writing. It really does help to get it all out. As for the cutting, try cold ice in your hand instead or find a rubber band to snap against your wrist. I am a cutter as well so I know the urge to self harm can be strong. Hang in there!

Thanks. I really appreciate your responses. I tried writing and ended up ripping my journal in half instead, but I'm better now. I let the emotions wash over me, as much as I hated doing so (I ended up a ball of mess on the floor) but I needed the catharsis.

that's terible, i'm so sorry.

What I do when it just gets too much is destroy the broom handle; hammers, screw drivers, pliers, anything, just hit it, bend it puncture it, tear it. Therapist shakes her head at it, but it works! hahaha! Down with the brooms!