Erica and struggling

[Erica Anne]

My name is Erica I am a Survivor. I have struggled over many years because I didn’t want to feel like a victim. Making this post is difficult for me. I’m not good at admitting that I need help and support. I became a member in January 2024 a month before my father, my abuser died.  I never introduced myself or posted. Today I am attempting to do something different. 

[ActivistAlly]

Hello Erica,

It sounds like it was not easy for you to post but I'm glad you joined and stayed until you were ready to introduce yourself.  I hope that, as you are feeling comfortable, that you can get support and encouragement from people here.  You're not alone with your struggles.  I'm glad you are choosing to do a new thing by introducing yourself here.  

[rabbitprotectsme]

Hi Erica!

I'm glad you reached out even though it was hard. You deserve support in this and I'm hopeful you'll be able to find it here.

[WannaMoveOn]

1 hour ago, Erica Anne said:

My name is Erica I am a Survivor. I have struggled over many years because I didn’t want to feel like a victim. Making this post is difficult for me. I’m not good at admitting that I need help and support. I became a member in January 2024 a month before my father, my abuser died.  I never introduced myself or posted. Today I am attempting to do something different. 

Hi there, Erica, and welcome to After Silence!

It sounds like you've been battling with this for a long time, trying to comprehend what actually happened. It's not an easy step, as we might question and second guess our own memory, and at the same time just cannot let go about how we feel. 

I hope that this community will be that extra source of comfort that you need, and deserve. I believe every survivor should have the opportunity to connect with fellow survivors. We offer full anonymity, and you decide what to share and when. You own your story. 

Reclaiming our voices is a process. There might be ups and downs, my in the end of the day, healing is the only option to move forward. You don't have to do this on your own though, we believe you. 
 

Please feel free to contact me or any staff member of choice, if you'd have questions, need assistance or a little chat/vent. We are here for you.

Meanwhile, take gentle care

W

 

[bart27830]

Welcome here! It's good, you found courage to come here and speak out.

[Eviesaye]

Welcome! You succeeded in doing something different, so feel proud about that

 

 

[Erica Anne]

Thank you so very much! 🙏🙏🙏

[missfrier]

Dear  erica

 

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!

[Erica Anne]

Thank you so very much! 🙏🙏🙏

[ShyUnicorn]

Hi Erica,

I am sorry that you have a need to be here, but I’m so glad you decided to post. I hope that being here and trying a new approach will help facilitate your healing process. 
Welcome!

ShyUnicorn

[demuso]

Hi Erica,  welcome to AS.  

You're brave and strong for sharing your post. Sorry you experienced that. Everyone here is friendly and supportive and wish you the best on your healing journey

[MeBeMary]

Welcome Erica.

Welcome. I'm sorry for what you've been thru. You've found a supportive community with many understanding and kind members. Please know you are not alone.

Take your time and look around. There is no pressure. We are here for you, when ready.

Wishing you many healing steps!

Mary

 

[awi]

On 9/19/2025 at 1:34 AM, Erica Anne said:

 

You are not alone.  Healing is possible. 

Edited October 16, 2025 by awi