Open crevasse, Tangra Mountains, Antarctica, Author Apcbg, (CC BY-SA 4.0 International)
A chasm opens up again. Depression yawns before us once more, sucking us in despite our best efforts.
It may be that something reminded us of our earlier trauma. It may be that regret over an old loss or error in judgment morphed from sadness into despair. Whatever the cause, as abuse victims we can suddenly find ourselves falling headlong into darkness.
Consumed with self-loathing, we may feel achingly alone in a crowd, strangers in a strange land while at a local mall or familiar church service. The greetings, compliments, and good wishes of loved ones – however many, however sincere – are dismissed as undeserved. Life loses its savor. Even prayer seems stale.
Surprisingly, the skills and equipment necessary to alpine rescue have bearing on this.
Fatal Self-Isolation
Engulfed by depression, our instinct will likely be to self-isolate. But this can be a fatal mistake, effectively putting us at risk of hypothermia from the cold of the mountain crevasse into which we have fallen. It can take a rescue team and specialized equipment to pull a climber who has fallen into such a crevasse back to safety.
Climbing Team
It is essential to remember that none of us really climbs the mountains of life alone. We are all linked to others – to family, friends, roommates, neighbors, teachers, classmates, coaches, teammates, co-workers, health care providers, crisis hot lines, and God, Himself. These are vital resources. Continue reading
ANNA WALDHERR A Voice Reclaimed, Surviving Child Abuse 