What Happens On A Psychological Level After Abortion, And What To Do?
Having an abortion can have many emotional effects. Faced with this process, being aware of how we may feel after it, it is important to first know what to do about these feelings and thoughts. But We must also remember that an abortion does not always cause mental health problems or negative emotions because women react to it in very different ways.
As you know, there is an extensive debate about the idea of abortion, this being a traumatic experience (women can suffer intense anxiety due to it) that is, it can lead to post-abortion syndrome.
Although these effects can be denied or defended by various specialists, There are common symptoms that women can experience after having one.
Many of the symptoms of post-abortion syndrome are often similar to post-traumatic stress disorder. In this way, research indicates that The symptoms of grief due to miscarriage or induced abortion may be the following::
Experts who support “post-abortion syndrome” indicate that these symptoms appear after the abortion is performed and that They can last months, even years.
Can abortion grief cause depression?
Research around the topic “abortion” is a challenge, since carrying it out is unethical. That’s why, many of these studies are usually observational.
Taking this into account, in 2015 a study showed that having an abortion does not exactly predict the development of a mood disorder.
But this does not mean that it does not influence whether you suffer from depression. In fact, it all depends on the individual and the situation. In this way, some of The most common reasons that can lead to depression after experiencing an abortion are:
How to overcome an abortion?
After an abortion, each case is different, so it is important to take into account the following tips to take care of our mental health at these times.
1. Go to a professional
Being able to talk to someone neutral Knowing that he is not going to judge you will be a great relief that will allow you to overcome an abortion. In this way, a professional can be of great help in this process.
You may be interested: “Emotional labeling: what it is and what it is for in psychotherapy”
2. Don’t repress your feelings
Open up and talk about your feelings with your loved ones ; This is the first step to overcoming an abortion. Expressing emotions will make this process much easier.
3. Be kind to yourself
It is normal for women who have had an abortion to feel some guilt or shame.
Faced with these thoughts or feelings, it is important that you try to be more gentle with yourself. Have more moments of internalization to heal your interior and plan small moments during the week so you can enjoy your hobbies.
Related article: “Selfishness or self-care?”
4. Change your point of view
Abortion is a topic that can generate a lot of prejudice from others. To overcome it, I recommend that you try to change the point of view that some individuals may think and always remember that It is a valid decision.
You will see that, with internal dedication and work, overcoming an abortion does not have to symbolize psychological consequences for the women who go through it. Even so, it is vital to know when to ask our loved ones for help and to listen to ourselves if we feel bad.
