It is not at all unusual for a woman to experience difficulties following an abortion, and men are often profoundly affected too.
For many, there is an initial sense of relief, but later emotions of sadness, regret and loss can come. Some women wonder if they actually made the wrong decision, and understandably try to bury these negative emotions. This can lead to periods of depression, anxiety and feelings of low self- worth.
For Christians, there is an additional strong spiritual dimension; they may believe they must keep their abortion experience a secret, for fear of being judged. Even knowing in their head that God forgives, many feel unable to receive this, and find it difficult to forgive themselves. This can cause a barrier to come between them and God, which prevents them from embracing all that God has for their lives.
It takes immense courage to begin addressing these painful emotions, but help is available. OPEN offers Healing Retreat Weekends which give the opportunity to work prayerfully through a post abortion healing programme in a safe and relaxed environment.
OPEN Healing Retreat Weekends
The Open post abortion healing retreat weekends take place in relaxed and peaceful venues. There will be sensitive teaching in a small and confidential group setting, and the opportunity for attendees to gently work through their experience with up to 5 other participants. There will be no pressure to share, and everything discussed will be treated with confidence.
The retreat will be led by advisors with many years’ experience in post abortion counselling, and is delivered from a Christian faith context. However, all are welcome!
Previous participants found that their abortion experience was never far from their minds, and yet they could not resolve the feelings themselves. They have found post abortion support groups to be to be life changing and healing times. If the abortion is very recent, it may be more beneficial to wait a while, but please contact us to chat this over.