[hocus pocus]

Hi there!

I'm so sorry that you had to go through such an awful experience but I'm really glad that you told someone about it. That alone shows how courageous you are! Never forget your courage, okay?

Seeing as your mom is aware of what you've been through, do you think you can talk to her and see if getting some counseling is an option? Counseling would really help you out. You need to get what you've been through and your feelings surrounding it out in the open to heal from it. A professional can help and support you while you process everything that you've endured. Here is a great resource that you can use to find a therapist in your area. I found my therapist on here and hopefully you can find one too!

It's completely understandable to be fearful of men right now. It's common in people that have been through things like this. Just try to remember that not every man is like your uncle; not every man is going to hurt you like you were hurt before.

Seeing as you've been through a lot lately it can't hurt to take some time off from school so you can take care of yourself. Do you think your mom would let you take some time off? If not, perhaps you can consider talking to your school counselor (or someone you trust at school) about this and how it's affecting your schoolwork. You only have to say what you're comfortable with, and hopefully you'll get some leeway if you decide to talk to someone at school about this.

Flashbacks can be tough to deal with sometimes. I think it might be better for you to work through them rather than try to prevent them, though. Try to remind yourself that you survived and you're in the present; you're safe now. Do you know of any grounding techniques? You can stomp your feet, hold a conversation with someone, sing loudly, or hug a stuffed animal.

As for your nightmares, I suggest keeping a journal beside your bed and documenting them if you have any. Perhaps you can sleep with a dim lamp or a nightlight on; that's helpful for some. Also consider watching some humorous things before falling asleep or thinking back to a memory that you're fond of.

You didn't have control of what your uncle did to you, but you still have control over other things in your life. Overall, my best advice for you is to healthily release your feelings and talk to other people about what you're going through. If you feel like you're going to hurt yourself, go to your local medical center or call one of these hotlines.

Please feel free to send me a message if you ever need anything.