Nightmares
It is common for people who have been sexually abused or raped to have nightmares, even if it happened many years ago.
This may be your mind’s way of trying to make sense of the distressing things that have happened to you.
As nightmares can be very scary and upsetting, it is important to look after yourself if you should experience one. Try and ground yourself in the present, perhaps by touching the furniture around you. Perhaps there is someone close who you can talk to about the nightmare, and try and make sense of it. For more information, please see our section on grounding.
Above all, try to remember that although it may seem very scary, it is only a bad dream and can’t hurt you, although it will probably leave you feeling very upset.
If you have anything you would like to know or discuss, please e-mail us. We will get back to you as soon as we can.
If you are under 18, and tell us that you(or someone you know) are being or have been sexually abused or raped, we may have to share this information with Social Services, who will then help you get the support you need.