Post-Abortion Syndrome is a Post Traumatic Stress Disorder commonly experienced
by women who have had one or more abortions. Through the process of denial, the
woman has blocked the natural grieving process of the death of her child and
often has denied her responsibility in the abortion. The denial or suppression
blocks the healing process and the possibility of forgiveness for herself and
others. The trauma often manifests itself as a breakdown of function in the
psychological, physical, or spiritual areas. ( J. Denton Collins, MA., M.F.C.C.)
WHAT ARE THE COMMON SYMPTOMS OF P.A.S.?
Anxiety, Suicidal Impulses, Regret/Guilt, Self-Destructive Behavior, Sadness,
Inability to sustain an intimate relationship, Feelings of loss, Drugs & Alcohol
Abuse, Hatred towards anyone connected with the abortion, Repeat Abortions,
Desire for secrecy about abortion, Blunting of emotional affect, Nightmares,
Anger/Rage, Sexual Dysfunction, Severe Emotional Pain
HOW CAN A WOMAN RECOVER FROM PAS?
POST-ABORTION SYNDROME COUNSELING is a caring and supportive aid to the woman
in accepting reality, processing grief, and receiving forgiveness for guilt. All
psychological trauma has a residual effect, but the effect can be minimized if
the trauma is recognized as reality, accepted, and worked through. James Dobson,
noted Christian psychologist states: "The first step to mental health is the
acceptance of reality."
There are 9 Stages of Post-Abortion Counseling
> The Pre-Pregnant Woman
> The Pregnancy
> The Abortion Decision
> The Abortion
> Accommodation & Symptoms
> Anger Resolved
> Forgiveness & Reconciliation
> Establishing Relationship with the Baby
> Going on with Life