Is it normal to repress memories of being sexually abused?

73% Normal
6 Comments

I think I may have been sexually abused as a child by my friend's older brother, but I haven't remembered it until recently. I remember being in his room and him suggesting playing a game like doctor with me and his sister and him getting us to touch him while he touched us. I was around 7 or 8, and he was about 8 or 9 years older. Randomly throughout my life I kept coming back to that night. All this time, I remembered so much else about that night, and I didn't know why, it was just a sleep over- but now there's more and it's just a mindfuck. So many of my relationships with men make more sense now. A year ago he committed suicide, so is it possible that my mind felt ready to deal with this? Is it normal to repress these memories and have them resurface years later? And do I tell anyone?

Voting Results
73% Normal
Based on 11 votes (8 yes)
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Comments ( 6 )
  • GuessWho
    10 years ago

    Yes. It's completely normal.
    Many people bury bad memories deep down in their subconscious where they won't come up and bug them until they're emotionally ready to deal with it - which for some people may be never.

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  • Avant-Garde
    10 years ago

    Yes it is. I should know because it happened to me. I suggest that you do what I'm doing and seek a therapist who specialises in trauma. Then, whenever you feel comfortable/safe enough to do so, make a report of the abuse to the police.

    Good Luck!

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  • chuy
    5 years ago

    Totally normal I suggest you get some kind if therapy to help youcope with it.

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  • peterr
    10 years ago

    Too accurate a memory is a pain in the ass!!!

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  • zenji
    10 years ago

    Big deal. Sorry, but big deal. Life goes on. I think you have a 'sex is dirty' attitude, that's too bad. But, for real, why does this matter? In the context of your life, why do you care?

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  • Hottigene
    10 years ago

    If it really bothers you you should talk about it may help in some way to get it out for you also.is this older brother still in your life I mean do you still know him maybe you should cinfront him if you can and let hjm know that you Rememmber what he Did.

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