Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.
While everyone’s experience is different, dealing with mental health issues after an abortion is common for many women. These life-changing issues are a valid concern when considering your options during an unexpected pregnancy. Read on to learn about some of the mental health changes that can be common after undergoing an abortion and why many women have found support groups to be helpful when coping with feelings of grief, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from an abortion.
The strength and variety of possible emotions women experience after having an abortion can range widely. While some women may report feelings of relief, many others indicate they feel guilt, grief, depression, or shame. In some cases, especially if the actual medical procedure was difficult or damaging, women may develop PTSD and have periodic flashbacks to this traumatic experience.
Because abortion still carries a tremendous social stigma, women who have undergone an abortion may also experience isolation. This is especially common among members of religious groups that tend to strictly prohibit abortion; without the ability to turn to friends and loved ones for support, women may fall into depression and feel they’re unable to share their emotions with anyone around them.
Unfortunately, these mental health conditions can only become worse over time without treatment. Mild cases of grief or guilt may not have a lifetime impact, but depression, anxiety, or PTSD can impact future relationships, career decisions, and other big life choices.
For women dealing with strong negative emotions after an abortion, or even simply experiencing unresolved feelings, attending an in-person support group or seeking support in an online community can be helpful. These support groups allow women to share their emotions with others who have gone through similar experiences, all without the fear of judgment or attack, receiving support and empathy in the process.
But for many women who are still reeling from their abortion, even taking the first step of reaching out to find a support group can be a challenge. Some may be afraid to be vulnerable about their experience in front of others, while others may assume that a post-abortion support group will be too similar to a twelve-step program.
However, abortion support groups can function much differently from the support groups seen on television or in the movies. By focusing on the individual and their unique experience, these groups can empower women to reclaim their sense of self, often for the first time in a long time.
Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.
ABOUT AVAIL
Avail NYC provides free, compassionate support for women and men navigating unexpected pregnancies or seeking support after an abortion. Our trained Personal Advocates offer a safe, confidential space online or in-person to process emotions and explore options. Equipping clients with personalized coping strategies and resources, we empower them to move forward with confidence at their own pace. Avail NYC is not a medical provider. To learn more or meet with a personal advocate, visit Avail NYC.
Our office is conveniently located at 115 W 45th St, 4th floor, New York, NY 10036. To see directions and hours, please read more about our location.
For your online appointment, please check your email for the link to join the appointment via Zoom. This link was sent when you scheduled the appointment and is included in your appointment reminders. If you can’t find it, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we’ll resend the information quickly.
You can always cancel or reschedule your appointment if you need to. Simply select “Manage Appointments” via our online booking system or contact us directly to move your appointment to a time that better fits your schedule.
If you miss your appointment, there’s no need to worry. We understand that things can come up unexpectedly. Simply reschedule at your earliest convenience through our online system or by reaching out to us.
Absolutely, you are welcome to bring someone with you for support during your appointment. We aim to make you as comfortable as possible, and having your partner or a supportive friend or family member by your side can be part of that. Just add a note when you make the appointment and we will have a male or female advocate there to support them.
Our personal advocates are highly trained, trauma-informed professionals who have been trained on counseling techniques, confidentiality, and sensitivity to diverse needs, and how to help others make a decision.
We're here to make sure you feel fully supported. We do encourage you to work with one advocate, but if you feel you need to make a change at any time, learn more about our team of qualified personal advocates or just reach out to us.
A safe place for confident decisions.
115 W. 45th St., 4th Floor
NY, NY 10036
Text us: 234-201-0532 or Call us: 212-689-1705
© Avail 2024