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Feeling ashamed
Everything you need to know about...
You feel ashamed. Ashamed because you fell for it. Ashamed because you initially enjoyed it. Ashamed because you feel like you caused this. Ashamed because you found it exciting to send intimate photos. Ashamed because you don't want everyone to find out. Ashamed because you don't want everyone to see your photos. These feelings of shame are stopping you from telling anyone. What can you do?
‘’I finally dare to talk about it. I am no longer ashamed, but it took me a long time to get to this point.’’
- Myriam
Shame can hold you captive. Rather than running the risk of these photos being leaked online, it can make you send more photos, pay money, or meet someone against your will.
It is not surprising that you feel ashamed, but you aren’t the only one who feels this way. 82% of people who experience sexual abuse are unable to talk about their experience due to feeling ashamed. The shame you feel may also be related to your belief that you caused it yourself. Guilt and shame often go hand in hand.
What can you do if you feel ashamed?
Write about it
It can feel good to write down what happened and write about your feelings. This can be a first step to disclosing the experience with people around you. You can write down your story by clicking on the button below. You can choose to keep your written story to yourself or to share it (anonymously) on our story page. Almost 300 others have gone before you.
Tell someone you trust
Talking to someone you trust can bring relief. This way you know that you don't have to do it alone.
Good to remember
Please know that it is not your fault: you did nothing wrong. You have nothing to be ashamed of. The person who shames, threatens, blackmails, or abuses you is the one at fault.
People who can help you
If you don’t have anyone in your surroundings you can or dare to talk to, you can ask questions or chat anonymously with a professional from Centrum Seksueel Geweld, Fier, and Helpwanted. Together you can figure out what your next step could be.
