How should I tell that I was raped when I was 8?

First of all I want to make sure you are safe. Please go to a safe place if you can. A friend’s house, a relatives house or you may already be safe.

Find an adult you trust. I know it is very intimidating to tell someone about it, but it’s very very very important that you do. I sat my mom down in a corner of a coffee shop - so it was a public place but we had privacy.

None of this is your fault and congratulations for coming out about it. I know it’s very scary. You’re very courageous and brave.

If you don’t stop it - it will continue to happen.(and could happen to someone else.) The rape is more about the control than it is pedophilia or even the sex itself.

I am a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. I was raped and abuse from a young age till about age 19. I have a deposition in 2 days and court in a month. It is a very hard process but know that many many many people will support you. You actually only live about 20 mins from me.

I also encourage you to seek counseling services.

Here are some resources for you: http://www.wherestheoutrage.org/ http://www.novabucks.org/ (They have many offices and great services - My counseling is through them)

Sexual Tramua Hotlines 24/7: WOAR-(215)985-3333 WEAVE-866.920.2952 (Toll Free) 916.443.3715 (TDD) RAINN- 1.800.656.HOPE Rape Victim Advocates-1-888-293-2080

RAINN also has an online hotline, which is similar to a instant messenger. It will hook you up with a trained counselor to chat with.

If you’re on myspace there are some groups you can join - http://groups.myspace.com/RapeRecovery http://groups.myspace.com/imasurvivor http://www.myspace.com/rightprogram http://groups.myspace.com/stoprape

Here is also a message board with many helpful women who will support you: http://messageboards.ivillage.com/I’ve-bhsexabuse

And of course you can talk to me if you need to. Feel free to funmail me or send me a message on myspace.

hugs Sika aka Danielle