They said having an abortion would be easy, so it can be confusing to experience so many emotions afterwards. Unfortunately, not enough people talk about the emotional aftermath of abortion, but abortion does affect many women mentally and emotionally.
If you’re struggling after your abortion, we want you to know that healing is possible. We offer a safe, caring, and confidential place where you can begin that journey.
Navigating Your Emotions
Even if your abortion felt like the best decision at the time, it’s common for feelings of grief to appear later. Grief can look different for every woman and can even have physical effects on your body. These are some common signs of grief you may notice after an abortion:
- Trouble sleeping or eating
- Ongoing sadness or numbness
- Anger or irritability
- Regret or guilt
- A longing for what might have been
- Anxiety or difficulty focusing
Some women also describe feelings of shame or isolation. And other studies show an increased risk for anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and even suicidal thoughts following an abortion. These emotions can feel heavy, but you don’t have to carry them alone.
How to Begin Recovering After an Abortion
Healing after an abortion takes time, but there are steps you can begin taking now:
Talk to someone you trust. Sharing your experience with a friend, mentor, or counselor can help lighten the emotional weight you’re carrying. Sometimes, just sharing your experience out loud is enough to help alleviate some of the pain you’re feeling.
Take time to grieve. It’s natural to feel sadness after a loss; your healing begins with allowing yourself to process those feelings. Set aside time to journal, paint, or engage in calming activities and allow space to process.
Pay attention to what’s happening in your body. Grief, anxiety, and other challenging emotions often have physical manifestations like a heavy feeling in your chest or an upset stomach. Take notes about where you experience emotions in your body, and be kind to your body during this time.
Consider post-abortion care. At A Choice to Make, we offer compassionate support for women and men impacted by abortion. It’s a safe space to process your emotions without fear of judgment. We offer both one-on-one and group support options.
Support After Abortion
Navigating tough emotions after an abortion can be really hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. There’s hope for healing and to continue experiencing the beauty and wonder of life.
Reach out today to learn more about our post-abortion support or to schedule a confidential appointment at no cost to you.