How Can I Recover Emotionally After An Abortion?

Many women say they feel relief immediately following their abortion. For a while, they believe it is something they won’t think about again. But for some women, anxiety and depression begin a few weeks, months, or even years afterward. Healing is available, and we offer the understanding and support you need. 

Does Abortion Cause Emotional Problems?

It is challenging to study the emotional responses to abortion because every woman’s experience is unique. Did she feel pressured by someone? How far along was she in her pregnancy? Was she alone in her situation, or did she have support?

More research is necessary. However, one study published in the National Library of Medicine came to three conclusions:

• Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.
  
• The abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women.
  
• There are risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, that identify women at greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.

What Are the Potential Mental Health Risks?

Once again, a woman’s response to her abortion is unique to her situation. But the following are a few of the emotional struggles some women may have:

• Alcohol or illegal drug dependence
  
• Mood disorders (including depression)
  
• Anxiety disorders

The American Psychological Association (APA) says, “traumatic stress is a normal reaction to an abnormal event.” The APA lists responses like unpredictable feelings, changes to thoughts and behaviors, overly sensitive to noise, strained relationships, and physical symptoms like a headache or nausea.

What Are the Steps to Emotional Recovery?

The APA provides practical steps to cope with stress and regain emotional healing.

• Lean on your loved ones. Whether family or friends, find someone you can trust.
  
• Face your feelings. It isn’t healthy to avoid thinking about the event.
  
• Prioritize self-care. Get enough sleep, eat well, and find ways to relax.
  
• Be patient. Take it one day at a time.

How Can A New Generation Help Me?

A New Generation offers confidential support for both women and men who are struggling after experiencing an abortion. Curriculums such as “Surrendering the Secret” and “Healing a Father’s Heart” are available. Trained client advocates lead these support groups.

If you’re looking for online support, A New Generation has partnered with abortionchangesyou.com to help individuals heal from abortion experiences.

We encourage you to schedule your no-cost appointment to begin your road to healing. We’re here for you.