Effects of Sexual Assault

A Trauma Such as Sexual Assault Impacts All of Us Differently

There is no right or wrong way to react.

Our reactions can be influenced by the specific circumstances of the assault and/or other life experiences. Some common reactions include: 

• Self blame 
• Anger or rage 
• Fear Feelings of betrayal 
• Loss of sleep
• Depression
• Nightmares
• Disassociation 
• Hypervigilance 
• Feeling numb 
• Fear of intimacy 
• Suicidal thoughts
•  Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 
• Fear of not being believed 
• Aches, pains, digestive issues 
• Loss of appetite 
• Anxiety 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Using alcohol and other drugs to cope