Although the media tells you differently, many women struggle emotionally after an abortion. Their first reaction after an abortion is often relief. But weeks, months, or even years later, some women feel depressed, anxious, and shameful. If those emotions sound familiar to you, we want you to know there is hope and healing.
You Are Not Alone
A couple of years ago, the New York Times stated almost 60% of the “typical” abortion patients were in their 20s. They’re usually unmarried, and 6 out of 10 already have children. For many, it’s their very first abortion.
Women typically don’t share their abortion experiences. They are afraid friends and family will judge or think less of them. As a result, women tuck the memories, emotions, and experiences tightly away.
Even if you do not fit into the group of “typical” women having an abortion, many others, like you, have made this decision. You are not alone.
How Is Your Current Mental Health?
If you fit into the group of “typical” women choosing abortion, you may be at a greater risk of emotional health problems. Women in their 20s are either older Gen Zs or younger Millennials.
Sadly, Gen Z is also the age group reporting the greatest mental health problems. In a survey reported by Psychiatrist.com, 42% of Gen Z have received a mental health diagnosis. The most common diagnosis is anxiety, followed by depression.
What does that have to do with abortion? A National Institutes of Health (NIH) study states, “there are risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, that identify women at greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.”
Your Emotions Are Real
If you chose abortion for an unplanned pregnancy, we want you to know your struggle is real. Women have reported feeling sadness, grief, loss, depression, and anxiety after abortion. Some women have struggled so deeply that it was determined they had abortion-specific post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Some of the commonly reported negative emotions include:
- Guilt
- Anger
- Shame
- Remorse or regret
- Low self-esteem
- Loneliness
Have you experienced any of these?
Healing Is Available
The following are some ways you can find healing from your abortion pain:
- Accept that your pain is real
- Allow yourself time to grieve
- Share your story by speaking with people you trust
- Find a safe space to engage with others
- Seek professional help if necessary
- Change lifestyle habits such as eating better, exercising, and reducing stress
- Avoid isolation
Visit HopePlace Fordyce and speak with one of our trained client advocates. We also offer certified life coach consultations and can connect you with trustworthy healing groups.
Call us or fill out our confidential online contact form, and we will be in touch shortly. We care about you and your healing journey. Let us help you today.