YWCA Fresh Start start 3:Layout 1 - YWCA Canada

YWCA CANADA | A TURNING POINT FOR WOMENdreams, if you are having anxiety attacks that make it difficult for youto function, you should talk to your counselor or doctor, who canmake sure you get the help you need.You are not losing your mind. You are having a normal reaction toextreme trauma. It is important for you to get the support you needso you can cope with the trauma and still move ahead in your life.Coping strategiesThere are many strategies for coping with the emotions you will befeeling after you leave your partner.You may want to keep a journal or diary to help you write downeverything you are feeling. You can look back at it over time to seehow you are progressing.You may want to take up physical activity to work off some of youremotions.This might be a time to start a hobby you have always been interestedin – you might find that a creative outlet for your feelings is just whatyou need.No matter what you do, you should give yourself time alone, so youcan cry, yell or do whatever else you need to with privacy.Getting counseling or joining a women’s support group is also a veryimportant thing to do, even if you think you feel fine. This can helpyou understand your feelings better and learn coping techniques. Youwill feel less isolated if you can talk with others who have beenthrough a similar experience.Try not to judge yourself for being emotional. What you are feeling isperfectly normal.And, take the time to enjoy the new feelings of empowerment,freedom and control. Take pleasure in making decisions on your own,without fear of how your partner will react.Feeling suicidalIf at any point you feel that your emotions are completely out ofcontrol, you start to think there is no point to carrying on or you havesuicidal thoughts, talk to a professional immediately. You can call awomen’s or community crisis line, the police emergency number,your family doctor or counselor or you can go directly to the hospital66