Sexual assault is traumatic, often leaving survivors in a state of overwhelming turmoil and confusion. The following is a list of common reactions.
- denial
- helplessness
- dislike of sex or promiscuity
- anger
- guilt
- depression
- shame
- nightmares
- sleeplessness
- anxiety
- flashbacks
- fear
- mood swings
- numbness
- social withdrawal
- difficulty trusting
Sexual violence is among the most common causes of post-traumatic stress disorder. Victims may also suffer from rape trauma syndrome.
Typically, the first stage is acute distress, which begins immediately following the assault. It includes:
- shock
- disbelief
- confusion
- anxiety
- soreness, bruising, bleeding, sleep disturbances, nausea and fatigue.
The second stage can be a period of adjustment. The victim may rationalize the assault or say that she/he has “forgotten” the attack. It may seem that the victim has reached a state of resolution, but usually has not.
The third stage, called reorganization, is marked by depression, fear and nightmares. The victim may appear to be getting worse instead of better. These responses are a sign that she/he may be confronting emotions and recovering from the assault.
Triggers (specific touches, sights, sounds, smells and places that remind victims of the attack) produce a memory of the assault, leading to flashbacks. Victims often take conscious or unconscious steps to avoid triggers. Doing so means the victim is forced to change her/his life activities.
Victims can experience flashbacks, a re-experiencing of the assault. This is more than a memory – the victim actually believes the attack is occurring again.
Counseling can enable survivors to better manage their emotions. Free and confidential support is available through local rape crisis centers. Survivors can contact PAAR at 412.431.5665. |
