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Self-help Kit
 Self-help strategies:

In this page, information about self-help strategies regarding coping with sleep difficulties and controlling panic and sudden distress will be provided. These Self-help strategies are adapted from the self-help pack produced by 'Fire in Ice'. Surive would like to thank them and the Merseyside Survivors for their kind permission to use them.

Coping with sleep difficulties

Survivors of child sexual abuse often experience problems with sleep. These problems can take many forms, including:

  • Nightmares about the abuse
  • Waking up in a panic
  • Not being able to get off to sleep
  • Finding that the slightest noise or disturbance wakes you
  • Finding that having sex triggers memories of the abuse.

    • Here are some general hints about sleep, rest and bedtime:

  • Make sure the place you're going to rest is physically comfortable. Use whatever relaxation works for you.
  • Establish some regular habits, a new 'going to bed' ritual, avoid emotional literature/issues just before bedtime.
  • Try to get into the habit of taking exercise during the day.
  • Avoid coffee and tea in the evening- it's a stimulant and keeps you awake.
  • Avoid alcohol and non-prescribed drugs.

    • Problems with sleep can also be a symptom of depression, if you're depressed, your doctor may prescribe you an anti-depressant to help you sleep and lift your mood.

    Nightmares

    Survivors often experience distressing nightmares. The nightmares can include:

  • Direct re-creations of the abuse.
  • Children being harmed or killed.
  • Scenes of death and violence.
  • Being chased or otherwise assaulted.
  • Being humiliated or put in a powerless position.

    • The emotion attached to the nightmare is often one of absolute terror. Some people suggest that you can 'take charge' of your nightmare. In other words, turn the tables on whoever is attacking or abusing you during the nightmare. Whilst this may be possible in some cases, it's certainly not true for everyone. Don't give yourself a hard time if this isn't true for you.

    If you wake up in a Panic

  • Be kind to yourself immediately afterwards.
  • Decide whether you need to be on your own right now.
  • It can be good to talk about how you are feeling.
  • If you're on your own, is ther anyone you can ring to talk it through?
  • Be gentle with yourself for the rest of the day.

    • Nightmares are a part of the process of recovery- an unpleasant part. It takes courage and strength to experience them and reach out for support.

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    Last Updated:Jan 2004

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