SoulStreet
SoulStreet.org has been around in various forms online since early 2004 and it’s seen some changes but the things that remain the same are my sharing of what I go through and offering information to help those wanting to find out more or to find other resources online.
My journey down a long dark road
It started when I was 5 years old when I was sexually assaulted over a period of time. It didn’t stop there as there was more to come; when I was 7 years old and again at 10 years old, each time with a different monster! Sexual abuse at any age is a devastating thing to go through, on many levels it destroys who you are and causes years of pain, anger, confusion and sometimes death.
Due to these instances I have been battling Depression for 26 years and at times Anxiety has sunk its hooks in me deep and caused extra problems for me. During my fight with the “black dog” as depression is sometimes referred to, I’ve found myself turning to a maladaptive coping mechanism that is Self-Injury. Trust me, you don’t want to play with that one if you can help it.
As a rule I don’t share my experiences in open, I’ve been a part of private online communities where I have done so but I’ve rarely spoken out in public about what I’ve been through and I find myself now changing the format of this website so that I can. Big bold move for me, stepping right out of my comfort zone but I am doing it for a few reasons….
- The more people who stand up and be counted, the better help and support we can get.
- Those going through any of these things may find it helpful to see that many others are going through similar issues to them, and it’s a great way of seeing what coping strategies we all use – that in itself is a great resource.
- I am sick to death of the ignorance surrounding these topics, education and understanding IS the key!
Soul Searching
I will also have “Soul Searching” pages which generally are things that I find might help me cope or understand the bigger picture and I aim to share more of those in time too.
I will try and cover all the topics “close to my heart” but at times depending on what is more relevant in my own world, you may see more about depression at some points, soul-searching or on sexual abuse etc. Keep checking back to read what’s new or better still, add the blog to your RSS reader.
Pages and Links
On the blog there are a list of “links of interest” which are pointed mostly at blogs of people battling depression or fighting through the damage caused by sexual abuse, fighting the urge to cut themselves or working on how to beat anxiety. I also have a page with “other resources” which has links to more official support and information sites as well as some personal websites. Please check out the sites relevant to your needs if you feel they may help you.
I don’t mind if you want to join in and comment where you like, or if you just want to read. If this helps at least one person (as well as myself) I will feel it’s not been done in vain.
Thanks for visiting, I hope you get something from your stay.