I can’t shake the worry that my daughter was raped as a teen

DEAR DEIDRE: I CAN’T shake the worry that my daughter was raped as a teen.

She hasn’t been herself for years, I’ve tried my best to help her but she never wants to open up.

She’s 22 and I’m her 45-year-old mother.

Growing up she was full of life, always out with her friends  and having fun.

Then things changed when she came home from a party and locked herself in her room for three days. She was 17 at the time.

I tried to talk to her, but she insisted nothing had happened.

Ever since, she has shut everyone out and become very sharp and rude. 

Now she has no aspirations, has lost most of her friends, and lives at home.

I’m worried sick and I don’t know what to do.

DEIDRE SAYS: There are many reasons why your daughter may not feel able to talk to you if she went through a traumatic experience.

She may feel ashamed, or guilty, or she may not want to upset you.

Tell her if she  wants to talk, you are there to listen and support her.

You could also suggest if she is worried about anything she can call The Mix (themix.org.uk, 0808 808 4994) who support people under 25. 

You can also contact Family Lives (familylives.org.uk, 0808 800 2222).