During the initial emotional stages after an abortion, individuals often hurt others. Denial and regret can lead to alcohol or drug abuse, shouting out pain to anyone who will hear, or blaming individuals who bore no responsibility for the decisions that were made. They may openly and actively blame the world for the choice that was made or silently attempt to get back to “life as normal.”

Many individuals never realize that their abortion is the reason for their pain. Ultimately, only God can help them face the truth—that the responsibility often lies solely on them. Many can not bear the thought of consciously dealing with the grief, guilt, and agony of resurrecting their child from the depths of their hearts. In a way, their child “haunts” them at every turn.

We ask you not to judge anyone at whatever stage they are in the healing process. No matter how hard they work to drive your love away, the truth is that they are simply angry at themselves and lashing out in pain. If you are close enough, you will feel their lashes. Do not take this personally. They struggle to accept the forgiveness offered in Christ for decision to take their child’s life.

The Symptoms of Post-Abortion Stress Syndrome may be helpful for you to read to understand this hurting person. In the timeline of every post-abortive person’s healing process, there are ways that others can help and love us along our journey to wholeness in Christ.