This book is the one that most Survivors and professionals tend to hear about first when they are looking for support for this very difficult subject.

The books deals with the question 'Am I a Survivors' as some people question whether what happened to them was abuse.

Looks at the linked feelings of grief, anger and how to move on and begin to heal

Guidance on self destructive behaviour including low self esteem intimacy and sexuality.

Gives insights to others close to the Survivor including partners family members and counsellors

Uses stories from other Survivors.

Gives information on further support.

Although this is a very well written book I think it is a bit long for someone starting the process of healing. There are some distressing accounts of other Survivors which can prove upsetting for someone who is vulnerable. They have infact produced a cut down version called
Beginning to heal ( see other review)
If I was advising anyone which book to read first I'd say Breaking free (see other review) before this.

ISBN 0-7493-0938-5