HELP • HOPE • HEALING
Post Abortion Stress Syndrome (PASS)
Many people don’t realize that an abortion creates strong feelings of both physical and psychological distress. Every person reacts to and recovers from this stress in different ways, and some may need help and guidance along the path to healing. This is why we offer our support through this process. Abortion can leave you feeling vulnerable, alone, and helpless. You are not alone.
Healing is Possible
Symptoms of Post Abortion Stress Syndrome
Post Abortion Stress Syndrome (PASS) is the residual pain of abortion felt through feelings of grief, anger, shame, guilt, or other mental or physical turmoil. Many people experience depression, anxiety, anger and abandonment following an abortion and these feelings can continue for months or even years afterwards.
The symptoms described in Post Abortion Syndrome are similar to the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Many women and men experience heightened feelings of depression or anxiety at anniversary months of either the abortion procedure or the proposed birth date of the child who was aborted. Unfortunately, many medical and mental health professionals fail to recognize the painful aftermath of abortion as an actual condition, making it difficult to feel heard or understood.
BELOW ARE SYMPTOMS OF ABORTION TRAUMA
- Bouts of crying
- Depression
- Guilt
- Inability to forgive yourself
- Intense grief / sadness
- Anger / rage
- Emotional numbness
- Sexual problems or promiscuity
- Eating disorders
- Lowered self esteem
- Drug and alcohol abuse
- Nightmares and sleep disturbances
- Suicidal urges
- Difficulty with relationships
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Flashbacks
- Multiple abortions
- Pattern of repeat crisis pregnancy
- Discomfort around babies or pregnant women
- Fear/ambivalence of pregnancy
Treatment for Post-Abortion Stress Syndrome
In many cases, these post-abortion symptoms don’t fade away over time, but can persist for long periods of time. Putting off the healing process can make these feelings intensify and become harder to handle. It can become easy to feel isolated and alone in your feelings, but that is never the case.
The best treatment for Post Abortion Stress Syndrome is getting help through resources, such as a support group or a weekend retreat. These groups and programs are designed to help you heal in a comfortable and safe setting, and to allow you to share your feelings and thoughts in a secure and confidential way. One of the best ways to find healing is to be able to process your abortion experience with others who know the pain you’re going through and can offer their insights and support. Contact us today to start your healing process and find freedom from the pain of an abortion.
Abortion Stories • Healing is Possible
Our Helpline Coaches are caring and non-judgmental. We are dedicated to supporting your recovery. Don’t wait for the pain of abortion to go away, let us help. Call or text our abortion helpline today for compassionate support.