Post-Abortion Syndrome (PAS) refers to a development and manifestation of a set of symptoms common to post-abortive women and men. PAS is a form of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Symptoms are formed in reaction to a traumatic life event, usually violent in nature, that is out of the range of normal life experiences. The coping mechanisms used to hold the emotions at bay are at risk of eruption when a new stress presents itself. PAS is formed when the emotions and thoughts surrounding the abortion experience have not been processed.
Some things you may be feeling are:
Depression
Flashbacks to the abortion
Anxiety attacks
Difficulty concentrating
Shame
Feelings of alienation from God and church
Outbursts of Anger
Repression or Denial Eating Disorders
Withdrawal from others Sexual Dysfunction Nightmares or sleeping disorders
Suicidal ideation or attempts Irritability
Drug/Alcohol abuse
Sense of hopelessness about the future
Abortion Recovery is possible!
Healing Stories
Did you know that there is hope? Although you may be hurting now, you don't always have to feel this way. The pain of abortion can be unimaginable. Dark clouds of despair may loom above but it won't always be this way. It has taken courage just to take these first steps of research and you may be realizing for the first time that some of the symptoms below may fit how you're feeling. There have been many women who have chosen to face their pain in an abortion recovery group alongside other courageous women and men. Our groups are offered all year long. We offer healing groups for men and women. Take a look at what others have said:
"Everyone was very comforting and I was able to express my feelings." –Nicolette
"This program was - in a word - transformational. In twenty years, I had never faced or dealt with my grief. For women that regret their decision or made it in virtual isolation and ignorance like me; this program can truly be a life altering experience. I was able to release the unforgiveness that plagued me and to quit sabotaging myself and my relationships. I am free of emotional confusion and have been blessed with a kind of peace and clarity that I have never known.
Thank you so much for everything that you have given me. It's only been a few months since group ended and I feel like a new person. Every one of you has made such a difference in my life."