Sexual assault is the single most personal violation someone can experience. It is tragic and traumatic for those who experience this horrific crime, whether it be in childhood or as an adult. The effects of sexual violence are far reaching and can leave a lifetime of pain and suffering behind for the victim to carry.
It is not uncommon for survivors of sexual assault to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is often misunderstood as a diagnosis of war and combat veterans. While many of our military personnel do suffer from PTSD, it is not reserved for veterans only. Anyone that has experienced any kind of physical, mental or emotional trauma can develop PTSD.
To understand PTSD, one must first have a good definition of trauma. Trauma is an emotional response to a stressful or disturbing event. For instance, anyone that has lived through a motor vehicle accident, a significant weather event or the sudden loss of a loved one has experienced trauma.
For survivors of sexual assault, the trauma they experience can leave them emotionally wounded and deeply affected. Many victims experience immediate nightmares, flashbacks (replaying of the event like a film in their mind), insomnia, hypervigilance, isolation, depression and anxiety.
Unfortunately, these are common signs and typical symptoms of someone dealing with trauma. The problem lies when these symptoms continue to persist beyond a few weeks or months in the life of a survivor. When these symptoms begin to affect a person’s everyday life beyond six months after the event, they are likely suffering from PTSD.
PTSD is far reaching and affects every area of one’ s life. Therefore, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional, preferably someone that has experience working with individuals that have experienced PTSD and trauma.
There is hope and healing beyond sexual assault, but sometimes it is very hard to see hope or healing alone. Here at the Sexual Assault Victim’s Advocacy Center, we strive to be a conduit to connect you with the hope and healing you need.
Please contact us if you are someone you love has experienced sexual assault and need support. We are here to help!