This is the story of Bopha*, a 17 year-old girl who lives in Phnom Penh, who went through a serious mental health challenge after she became a victim of online grooming. At first, unable to share her experience and ask for help, Bopha faced her challenges alone and in silence.
After seeking support from AusCam Freedom Project, Bopha received the mental and emotional support she needed and found the strength to heal, reclaim her voice, and take back control of her life.
Below is Bopha’s story in her own words.
Recovery is never easy, but for me, it has been a transformative journey that has taught me about resilience, strength, and the power of support. My journey began when I realised I could no longer handle my struggles alone. Seeking help was the turning point that allowed me to begin healing, and it was through the support of people and resources, especially from AusCam Freedom Project, that I was able to face my challenges head-on and start my recovery.
The first crucial step on my path to recovery came when I acknowledged that my attempts to solve my problems on my own were not working. I reached a point where I understood that I couldn’t continue struggling in silence. I decided to open up to people I trusted, such as my teachers and close friends. Sharing my story with them, people I felt safe with, was a pivotal moment. I knew that they would keep my secrets and offer me the support I needed. This decision came from a deep desire to reconnect with the person I once was. I was ready to be vulnerable and to ask for help, particularly from AusCam Freedom Project, who I believed could guide me in overcoming my difficulties.
Throughout my recovery, the support I received from AusCam Freedom Project played an essential role. The social worker at AusCam made a consistent effort to check in with me. They regularly asked how I was feeling, what my thoughts were, and how my sessions with Sombok (the mental health agency) were going. One person who was particularly supportive was Bong SeangEng (AusCam Social Worker). She would ask me how I was doing, encourage me to face my fears, and give me advice on how to improve my mental health. She helped me learn to think more positively and encouraged me to connect with others around me, which was something I struggled with. Her regular check-ins and compassionate advice were instrumental in my healing process.
Despite the support I received, my recovery was not without challenges. There were times when I didn’t fully understand some of the sessions or discussions, particularly during my sessions with Sambok. I often found myself confused and unsure of how to apply what I was learning. Additionally, my mental health struggles affected my ability to focus, especially when it came to schoolwork or projects. At times, I felt overwhelmed by my own thoughts and emotions, which made it hard to make decisions. My difficulties in communicating with others further isolated me, and I often felt lost. Those moments were some of the darkest in my life.
To cope with these challenges, I developed several strategies. I learned to talk to myself in a positive and encouraging way. I would remind myself that I was capable of overcoming my difficulties and that I had a right to heal. Sharing my thoughts and experiences with Sombok and my homeroom teacher also helped me process my feelings and gain a better understanding of my struggles. I worked through things I didn’t fully understand and committed to pushing forward. I reminded myself that I wanted a better life, and I was willing to do the hard work necessary to create that life. My desire to make my family proud was also a significant motivator for me to keep going.
Looking back, I can say that I am in a much better place now. I have learned to control my thoughts, emotions, and actions. I am more aware of who I am and what I want to do in life. My relationship with my family has improved, and I now communicate with them more openly. I feel relieved to know that my parents are doing well, and it brings me happiness to see our family bond strengthening.
This journey has also taught me valuable lessons about resilience. Through the process, I have gained a deeper understanding of how to manage my mental health. I have learned to carefully consider my thoughts before acting on them, realising that not every thought I have is the best choice for me. I now approach challenges with more wisdom and patience, knowing that healing takes time and effort.
My experience has significantly shaped my perspective on life. I have come to realise that nothing is more important than mental health. If our mental health is not in a good place, nothing else in our lives can function properly. I now know the importance of taking care of myself and seeking help when needed. Regarding relationships, I have been able to improve my communication with family and friends, allowing me to build stronger, more meaningful connections.
I hope others can learn from my story; it is the importance of sharing your struggles. When faced with difficulties, it’s easy to want to keep everything to yourself, but that only makes things harder. It is crucial to open up and share your experiences with someone you trust. Having the courage to speak out and ask for help can make all the difference. I want others to know that recovery is possible, and that it’s important to face the truth, learn from the past, and always keep hope for the future.
My recovery journey has been one of self-discovery, healing, and growth. It was not an easy path, but with the help of AusCam Freedom Project and my own determination, I have made significant progress. I am stronger, wiser, and more resilient than I ever thought possible. And through it all, I have learned that with support, self-reflection, and courage, we can overcome even the greatest of challenges.
Bopha’s transformational journey is a testament to the power of self-empowerment and the importance of having access to the right support. Every girl has the right to live free from exploitation, to be safe, to be heard, and to seek support without fear.
*Name and image have been changed to protect identity.
