Almost raped and scared to go back where it happened

There is no real way of getting rid of the fear… but the best way is to be accompanied by someone that makes you feel strong and that are supportive…

Even though you were “almost” raped it was obviously a traumatic event. Sexual assault is often times just as detrimental to someone as rape.

Sometimes when something traumatic happens to us our brains will associate something with the event. In your case it’s the place and environment that it happened. Going to where the even took place could cause a trigger(flashbacks or intrusive thoughts) which can sometimes be just as traumatic. (it’s the same concept of someone who was in a bad car accident not wanting to go into a car again.) This is a survival and protective instinct. The main thing is for you to feel safe. If you don’t feel safe then don’t go there.

To get over your fear, you have to reteach your brain and take control of the thoughts. People do this in many different ways so it’s difficult to say what would work best for you.

You should visit with a professional - a counselor or psychiatrist. In many sexual assault cases there is a center that offers free counseling. Look for rape/sexual assault center and victim advocate services in your local area.

xox Sika