PASSWORDMANAGEMENT
Feelings After Sexual Violence
The impact of sexual violence goes far beyond any physical injuries. Recovery takes
time, and you can be left with many painful emotions and mental effects.
It is important to remember that every survivor responds to traumatic experiences in their own way. The effects of trauma can be short-term or continue for a long time. Below are some common emotional, mental, and physical effects following experiences of sexual violence. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and a survivor may have other responses to trauma not shown here.
Common Emotional Responses to Sexual Violence
- Difficulty trusting others
- Anger and blame
- Shock
- Numbness
- Loss of control
- Disorientation
- Feeling that these reactions are a sign of weakness
- Helplessness
- Sense of vulnerability
- Fear
- Self-blame/guilt for 鈥渁llowing鈥 the crime to happen
Common Mental Effects of Sexual Violence
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts
- Depression, including prolonged sadness, feelings of hopelessness, unexplained crying, weight loss or gain, loss of energy or interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.8255.
- Dissociation, including not being able to focus on work or on schoolwork, as well as not feeling present in everyday situations
Common Physical Effects of Sexual Violence
- Bruising
- Bleeding (vaginal or anal)
- Difficulty walking
- Soreness
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Sexually transmitted infections and diseases
- Pregnancy
Other Common Experiences After Sexual Violence
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Menstrual cycle or fertility problems
- Chronic fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle tension
- Involuntary shaking
- Changes in eating and sleeping patterns
- Sexual dysfunction