PIper, I think you are right to forgive your old friend. He recognized that he screwed up, (not easy for teens) and owned up to his responsibility. Your going off the deep end was your problem, and you have to own your responsibility for your addictions and problems and not getting help sooner. I can see it as traumatic, and am surprised you haven't mentioned it in therapy. I hope opening up in a nice safe place like this ( i bet you are not alone in having had this happen) where no one will judge your weight, will help a lot. I want to encourage you to talk with your counsellor about it too. Triggers are just that, they trigger your behaviour, don't cause it.
GOod for you for working through these issues, it sure isn't an easy journey.
How brave you are.

Piper - my heart wept for you as I read your story. We all have painful past memories; kids are cruel (as are many adults, too) and not everyone had wonderful school-age memories. I'm one of those who have mentally blocked out my school years and am just now, at almost 40, starting to deal with it.

Blessings to you as you move through this time of forgiveness. I wish you peace & happiness! Let the healing begin, sister!!!!!!!!!!!

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: