Why Sexual Assault Impacts Mental Health...
Trauma
Research has shown that sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can have a profound effect on an individual's psychological well being. Trauma can lead to symptoms such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Shame and guilt
Survivors of sexual assault may experience feelings of shame and guilt. which can be very hard to deal with. These feelings can also make it really hard to talk about what happened or get support, and can lead to negative self-perception and impact mental health.
Disruption of trust
Sexual assault, or abuse itself, is the act of breaking a boundary that can shatter an individual's sense of confidence and trust in themselves and others. There might be times where our mind knows that we can trust someone, but our body is not relaxed and gives us signals that we need to back away. This can make it challenging to form close relationships and lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Fear and hypervigilance
Survivors of sexual assault may experience fear and hypervigilance, meaning they are constantly on guard for potential threats. This can lead to various mental health issues, including anxiety, panic attacks, and sleep disturbances. Such symptoms can continue for months or even years without treatment.
Seeking mental health treatment is a personal decision that may be beneficial. Having professional support can help survivors work through emotions and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Remember, healing from the trauma of sexual assault is a complex process that varies from individual to individual, and has no time frame.
If you believe mental health treatment is right for you, feel free to contact the Union County Rape Crisis Center at (908) 233-7273 for information.