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After The Assault:
Rape Trauma Syndrome
If you have been sexually assaulted, you may find yourself
struggling to make sense of what has happened to you. The
day before the assault your life may have been going according
to plan. Now you have to face the pain of sexual victimization
and the impact of violence in your life.
You may experience a roller coaster of different
emotional and physical reactions from the assault, which can
be difficult for anyone, male or female. These reactions may
leave you feeling very alone and isolated from the experience
of others.
At times like this, it can be comforting
to know that what you are feeling is normal and that others
have experienced similar reactions. This pattern of reactions
shown by many victims of sexual assault is called Rape Trauma
Syndrome.
Common physical reactions include:
- Changes in sleep patterns, insomnia, fatigue
- Changes in appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Nightmares, night terrors
- Headaches, bone aches, burning muscles
- Stress
- Loss of sexual feelings or interest
Common emotional reactions include:
- Shock
- Numbness
- Unpredictable emotions (calm, laughing, crying, hysteria,
rage)
- Disorientation, mental confusion
- Memory gaps, blackouts
- Inability to concentrate
- Loss of coping skills
- Fear, shame, guilt, anxiety, minimizing
- Disbelief
- Poor self worth
- Feeling “hallow,” sadness, grief
- Anger
These are just some of the various reactions
to sexual assault. It is important to remember that there
is no “normal” reaction to sexual assault. You
may have some, all or none of these reactions.
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