Hello. COCSA survivor here.

[masongator]

I came here simply because I felt desperate. My assault happened 15 years ago, when I was around 8-9, and it's only in the past few months that I have been able to see it as an assault. I tried to tell my story to other survivors. I got crickets. I wanted someone I could talk to about it and I realized so suddenly just how lonely it is having this experience that nobody else knew about for so long, and finally saying something only to get a resounding "who cares?". So yeah. I'm here because I'm lonely and want support. Maybe we'll get to know one another?

[Finchy]

Welcome to AS! I'm glad you found your way here.  You're not alone. I'm so sorry that you've gotten crickets when trying to tell your story before. You will find a lot of wonderful, comforting, and friendly people in this community. Take your time exploring the site. I wish you all the best on your healing journey!

-Finchy

[MeBeMary]

Welcome masongator.

I am sorry you have reason to be here, but glad you decided to reach out. This is a very supportive community with many understanding and kind people. 

It's amazing how many others lack the compassion or understanding at what trauma does to us. Whether it be ignorance or simply the lack of caring, it's a shame not more people support survivors of sexual abuses. I'm sorry it makes you feel isolated with your struggles, but as far as this site is concerned...you are not alone anymore. 

Take your time and look around and jump into it when you are comfortable and ready. We are here for you.

Wishing you the best on this healing journey.

Mary

[WannaMoveOn]

On 6/5/2025 at 11:19 PM, masongator said:

I came here simply because I felt desperate. My assault happened 15 years ago, when I was around 8-9, and it's only in the past few months that I have been able to see it as an assault. I tried to tell my story to other survivors. I got crickets. I wanted someone I could talk to about it and I realized so suddenly just how lonely it is having this experience that nobody else knew about for so long, and finally saying something only to get a resounding "who cares?". So yeah. I'm here because I'm lonely and want support. Maybe we'll get to know one another?

Hello masognator and welcome to AS! I am Wanna.

I believe we are about the same age then, I am 25. Many survivors do feel isolated with their experiences. Being traumatized, especially so young, challenges us in many ways, and tends to put a wall in-between us and the rest of the world. We wonder if anybody has ever experienced what we are going through, and yet, talking about it is very hard. Being afraid that nobody will believe us, that it wasn't all that bad, that nobody cares... many survivors are scared of those outcomes. However, there are people who care and are willing to listen. 

AS was made by survivors, for survivors. Even though we all have our unique experiences, we tend to relate to one another here. You can share whatever you'd feel comfortable to here, receive support, and hopefully find a sense of a community. Please know, we believe you. Healing can be a rocky road, but a support system helps along the way.

I am glad you've signed up here. Please reach out if you'd have any questions, need assistance with the site, or a little chat. I am just one PM away. 

All best W

[missfrier]

Dear masongator

 

Welcome to After Silence!!

 

I'm sorry for what you have been through. I find it is easier to talk on forums then out loud. Being here has helped me so much, even from the first time I ever posted. It is still helping me - I have so much support here and I know you will, as well. Here at AS, we are like a big family and our members are kind and non-judgemental.

 

I am sending you lots of safe hugs!

 

Take care!