Sexual abuse is a type of physical and/or emotional abuse that occurs when one person uses another person for their own sexual needs. Sexual abuse can involve force, threats, manipulation, or intimidation to get someone to do something they don’t want to do. It can also include unwanted touching or contact, or non-consensual sexual activity. Luckily, there is help. For example, civil rights lawyers such as Andrew Stroth seek justice in lawsuits to protect human rights. Keep reading to learn about the most common issues faced by sexual assault survivors.
Guilt and Shame
When someone is sexually abused, they often face guilt and shame. This is especially true if they were not able to stop the abuse from happening. They may feel like they did something wrong or that they are to blame. This can be very difficult to overcome and can lead to a lot of self-doubt and regret. It is important to remember that you are not responsible for the abuse. The abuser is the one who is responsible for their actions. You did not deserve the abuse and you are not to blame.
It is also important to remember that you are not alone. There are many other survivors who understand what you are going through. You can reach out to them for support. There are also many resources available to help you heal.
PTSD
Some people who survive sexual abuse will experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This means that they will have flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the abuse. They may also avoid anything that reminds them of the abuse, be constantly on edge, and have problems with memory and concentration. These symptoms can make it difficult for sexual abuse survivors to lead normal lives. They may have difficulty forming relationships, maintaining employment, or attending school. They may also find it difficult to trust others and to feel safe. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help sexual abuse survivors manage their PTSD. These treatments may include medication, therapy, and self-care. With the help of a therapist, sexual abuse survivors can learn how to cope with their PTSD symptoms and rebuild their lives.
Relationship Issues
Sexual abuse can have a long-term impact on survivors’ relationships. Survivors may struggle with trust, intimacy, and self-worth, which can affect their relationships. Trust is often a major issue for survivors. Many survivors feel like they can’t trust anyone, including their partners. This can lead to a lack of intimacy in relationships. Survivors may also be reluctant to be physically close to their partners. Self-worth is another issue that can affect relationships. Survivors often feel like they are not good enough, which can lead to problems in relationships. These feelings can also cause survivors to be critical of their partners. All of these issues can cause problems in relationships. However, with time and support, survivors can work through these issues and have healthy, happy relationships.
Eating Disorders
According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), “sexual abuse survivors are more likely to develop disordered eating patterns and eating disorders.” In fact, recent studies suggest that as many as 50-60% of women who have experienced sexual abuse struggle with disordered eating.
There are a number of reasons why sexual abuse survivors are more prone to developing eating disorders. First, many survivors feel a sense of shame and guilt about what happened to them. They may believe that they are somehow responsible for the abuse, and this can lead to self-hatred and an intense desire to punish oneself. Additionally, many survivors struggle with feelings of self-worth and self-esteem. They may see themselves as “damaged” or “tainted” and feel that they are not worthy of love or respect. This can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, where individuals use food to punish themselves, fill the emptiness inside, or regain a sense of control.
Overall, sexual abuse is a serious crime, and it can have long-lasting effects on the victim. If you have been sexually abused, it is important to seek help. There are many resources available to you, including counseling, support groups, and therapy. You are not alone, and you can get help.
