As church leaders, counseling is a large part of what you do. People come to you with numerous problems and you have a limited amount of time in which to direct them. Often individuals coming for counseling may not even understand the root of their problems.
One issue often overlooked in the counseling setting is the psychological aftermath of abortion. They may be coming to you for depression, relationship problems, suicidal tendencies and more, and not identify that it could possibly be stemming from their past abortion. The majority of those who have experienced abortion will find themselves overwhelmed in various areas and it may take time to find that the root goes back to their abortion.
Even though abortion is a physical procedure, the emotional effects following abortion long outlast the physical. Some women will experience psychological hardships immediately and some years later. It is important for us to be aware of what some of these symptoms are in order to identify and help those around us who may be struggling. Although not exhaustive, here are some of the symptoms that many experience following their abortion.
- Suicidal
- Depression
- PTSD symptoms
- Eating disorders and substance abuse
- Guilt
- Divorce and chronic relationship problems
- Increased child abuse
- Repeat abortions
There is much to be learned about the psychological trauma following an abortion. With half of women who have had an abortion believe that pastors’ teachings on forgiveness doesn’t apply to abortion, we carry a mandate to bring a message of hope, healing and wholeness to those we serve.
For more information on the psychological affects of abortion, you can read more by clicking these links.
- http://www.theunchoice.com/pdf/FactSheets/PsychologicalRisks.pdf
- https://www.heartbeatinternational.org/pdf/Abortion-emotional_risks.pdf
- https://www.cantstaysilent.com/assets/pdf/09LA2022_CSS_Report-Digital.pdf?__hstc=61024563.9ab83561b85ebda590458ebf9a5502f7.1667013184149.1667013184149.1667013184149.1&__hssc=61024563.1.1667013184149&__hsfp=457107530
- http://research.lifeway.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Care-Net-Final-Quantitative-Report.pdf
To equip your church to bring healing to those struggling with abortion, check out our resource page for post-abortion training and Bible studies HERE.
May God bless you as you continue to set captives free
