Having an abortion is a significant healthcare decision. It not only affects you physically, but it can affect you mentally, too.
Many factors determine how you will respond to an abortion. For instance, are you being forced to have one? Do you feel you have no other choice? Have you struggled with mental health problems in the past? These and other issues can determine how you could be affected mentally by abortion.
Is There a Link Between Mental Health and Abortion?
Researchers have hotly debated this topic over the years. One study concluded that for at least some women, their abortion “caused, triggered, aggravated, or complicated” their mental health significantly.
Immediately following the abortion, many women say they felt relief. The experience was behind them, and they could move forward. But sadness, grief, and anxiety begin to creep in for others. Sometimes, women report experiencing mental health problems months and even years later.
Will I Experience Mental Health Issues?
It is hard to determine how you will be affected by abortion. If you have struggled with anxiety, depression, and sadness previously, an abortion may add to those emotions. Other mental health issues that some women associate with their abortion include the following:
- Relationship problems
- Substance misuse
- Depression
- Thoughts of suicide
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Or you may experience one of these emotional side effects:
- Isolation
- Guilt
- Emotional pain
- Nightmares
- Anger or rage
- Self-destructive behavior
How Can I Get Help?
Our clinical counselor at BsideU for Life can help you receive professional support. If you are struggling with a previous abortion choice, we provide a listening ear, non-judgmental counseling, and even a post-abortion study.
You can meet with a small group of women who understand your emotional pain. Groups meet once a week for 8 weeks, and we offer weekend retreats throughout the year.
For some women, healing from a previous abortion is a difficult journey. Please consider joining us. We care about your physical and mental health. Let us walk alongside you during this time.
Please contact us to talk with a counselor or learn more about post-abortion support. Call 502-589-9400 or text us at 502-309-4951.