Sexual Assault, Sexual Violence
Understanding Sexual Abuse
Sexual violence is a pervasive problem. The abuse can lead to shock, fear , sadness, and in some cases, an anxiety or depressive disorder. But therapy, coping skills, and social support can relieve the burden and help survivors heal.
Personal, societal, and legal hurdles often prevent survivors from disclosing the abuse and receiving the help they deserve. Although the #MeToo movement and the national discussion that ensued helped to address sexual harassment and assault, there’s still a long way to go to create cultural change and stop sexual violence.
Sexual violence is a pervasive problem. In America, one in three women and one in four men experience sexual violence in their lifetimes, according to the National Institutes of Health. And those numbers are likely an underestimate due to the shame and fear that prevent many survivors from reporting abuse.
Sexual abuse can be traumatic . In the two weeks following an assault, 94 percent of women in one study reported experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder such as flashbacks, insomnia , hypervigilance, and avoidance. They also struggled with anger , anxiety, and depression . Yet up to 90 percent of survivors may recover naturally with time, research suggests. Mental health professionals are always available to help process this painful experience.
Healing from Sexual Abuse
Survivors of sexual violence may experience physical injuries due to the assault, as well as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. This can harm one’s health, career , and relationships.
Therapy can often effectively address the trauma of sexual abuse. Survivors learn how to identify and understand their emotions, process their memories, develop coping skills, apply stress- management strategies, and restore their confidence .
To find a therapist with experience treating sexual abuse or trauma, visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.
Although it can take a long time and multiple attempts, most people eventually leave abusive relationships. To make this decision, women have reported that it was crucial to 1) Confront reality and recognize that the abuse will not end 2) Release feelings of self-blame to reclaim self-esteem 3) Accept support and perspective from loved ones or a mental health professional 4) Reach a transition point with regard to feeling personally overwhelmed or consideration for a child’s well-being.
Helping Survivors of Sexual Abuse
Powerful forces often prevent survivors from disclosing or reporting sexual abuse, from the fear of retaliation to the potential of reliving a traumatic assault. But when survivors do decide to come forward, unwavering support from friends and family members can help them process the experience and move forward.
If you’re concerned that a loved one is suffering sexual abuse, asking them directly can lead to relief, support, and treatment. The signs that an adult may have been sexually assaulted include:
• Anxiety about specific situations that didn’t previously prompt anxiety
• Avoiding specific people or places
Explore More About Sexual Abuse
For a comprehensive understanding of sexual abuse, read our complete guide: