Hanna's Story

Hanna’s life changed forever three years ago when a stranger attacked and raped her in a public park. The incident left her severely traumatised and she began to experience panic attacks that severely impacted her ability to work, see friends, or even leave her house.

Struggling to cope with the aftermath, Hanna felt incredibly isolated. She didn’t know what to do or where to turn for help, until she found SARAC. Although she found it incredibly difficult to pick up the phone, she knew she needed professional support to cope with her trauma and the debilitating impact it was having on her life. Once she called our helpline, her mind was immediately put at ease. Our support workers listened to her, reassured her, and mapped out her pathway to healing, as well as outlining what she could expect from her first counselling session. After that first phone call, Hanna could finally see a light at the end of the tunnel that she had been stuck in for so long.

Through her therapy sessions, she was able to confront and process the trauma she had endured. Her support worker created a safe space where Hanna felt able to express her emotions and experiences. With the guidance of her counsellors, she developed coping mechanisms to manage her anxiety and navigate triggers associated with her trauma. By equipping herself with these tools, she learned to regain control of her thoughts and emotions, empowering her to begin taking steps back out into the world.

The consistent support and validation that Hanna received from SARAC allowed her to rebuild her confidence, and ultimately rediscover herself, so that she could begin to enjoy life once again. While some scars of her sexual abuse may remain, she has reclaimed her life and emerged not as a victim but as an inspirational survivor.