I have a wife with bulimia and it was getting to the point where I couldn't take it any more. She needed bulimia treatment badly, but I didn't know where to turn. Through the internet I came across your site and sent my wife for bulimia treatment at your center.
Whoever she first spoke with made her feel so comfortable, she even became excited about the possibility of not having to binge and purge any more. The change in her is amazing. I know she will always be recovering, but I am proud to say she is the most courageous person I know. Thank you for all of your help.
-- Preston V., Nashua, New Hampshire
I needed to find an eating disorder clinic so badly. I used to eat compulsively and had swung over completely to purging and laxatives. I felt so bad about myself, the shame and guilt was just killing me. I had been to an eating disorder clinic before, but they really did not address my mood swings, that I have since understood them to be a bipolar disorder.
Your staff kept telling me that my eating behavior was a symptom of other problems. Well even though I didn't believe them they turned out to be right. I don't use laxatives, I have even learned to exercise moderately. Thank you so much. By the way, it has been ten months since I last purged.
-- Bonnie S., Boston, Massachusetts
Well Shelly, I told you I would write when I had one year in recovery and here I am. Who would have guessed. I have so much gratitude for you taking your time and referring me to a great facility. I knew from the moment I walked in there that I was in the right place. The next time I come by it will be to visit, not as a patient. You are absolutely the greatest.
-- Venessa C., Raleigh, North Carolina
Child Sexual Abuse
Childhood Sexual Abuse
If you are suffering with an eating disorder as a result of child sexual abuse, help is within your reach. Call our nationally recognized toll-free helpline at 1-800-941-5313. Get the help you need to recover your health and reclaim your life. Caring professionals are standing by 24/7 to assist you and all calls are confidential.
Facts about Childhood Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse can take place within the family, by a parent, step-parent, sibling or other relative; or outside the home, for example, by a friend, neighbor, child care person, teacher or stranger. When child sexual abuse has occurred, the child can develop a variety of distressing feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
No child is psychologically prepared to cope with sexual abuse. Even a two or three year old, who cannot know the sexual activity is wrong, will develop problems resulting from the inability to cope with the sexual trauma.
The child of five or older who knows and cares for the abuser becomes trapped between affection and loyalty for the person, and the sense that the sexual activities are terribly wrong. If the child tries to break away from the sexual relationship, the abuser may threaten the child with violence or loss of love. When sexual trauma occurs within the family, the child may fear the anger, jealousy or shame of other family members, or be afraid the family will break up if the secret is told.
Effects of Childhood Sexual Abuse
A child who is the victim of prolonged childhood sexual abuse usually develops low self-esteem, a feeling of worthlessness and an abnormal or distorted view of sex. The child may become withdrawn and mistrustful of adults, and can become suicidal.
Some individuals who suffer from child sexual abuse have difficulty relating to others except on sexual terms, even as they age into adults. Some sexually abused children become child abusers or prostitutes, or have other serious problems such as drug addictions, eating disorders, dual diagnosis or alcoholism as they mature. Additionally, they may be prone to adult sexual abuse as well.
Indicators of Childhood Sexual Abuse:
Unusual interest in or avoidance of all things of a sexual nature
Sleep problems or nightmares
Depression or withdrawal from friends or family
Seductiveness
Statements that their body is dirty or damaged, or fear that there is something wrong with their genital area
Aspects of sexual molestation in drawings, games or fantasies
Unusual aggressiveness
Suicidal behavior
If the process of locating the best sexual abuse treatment program for you becomes confusing and a bit overwhelming, you can always call our 24/7 helpline at 1-800-941-5313.
Examples of Childhood Sexual Abuse
While most cases of child sexual abuse involve physical offenses like fondling or penetration, in truth, the abuse extends beyond physical contact with a child. It also includes non-touching sexual deviations between an adult and a child, such as:
Exposing a child to pornographic material
Indecent exposure
Masturbation in front of a child
Exposing a child to the act of sexual intercourse
Treatments for Childhood Sexual Abuse
If you were a victim of child sexual abuse and you are still battling the sexual trauma that resulted from it, then you should seek sexual abuse treatment as soon as possible. It's never too late to get the help you need.
If you are also suffering from an eating disorder or an alcohol or drug addiction, we can help you locate a dual diagnosis facility that can help you manage your addictions while your treatment for your childhood sexual abuse is under way.
While sexual abuse treatments cannot change the past, they can definitely help to improve your future. Don't wait. Get the help you need to finally overcome the devastating effects of child sexual abuse.
If you require confidential assistance in locating safe and effective sexual abuse treatment centers, please call the national eating disorder treatment helpline at 1-800-941-5313. Professionals are standing by 24/7 to help. CALL NOW!
