April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a Penn State Health Enterprise owned by Penn State Health, is committed to shedding light on the far-reaching psychological consequences of sexual assault. Survivors often face many challenges as they navigate the aftermath of such a traumatic event. We will explore the short and long-term effects of sexual assault on survivors, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and other mental health challenges.
The immediate aftermath
In the hours and days following a sexual assault, survivors may experience a wide range of emotions and psychological symptoms. These can include shock, disbelief, numbness, fear and anger. Additionally, they may suffer from acute stress disorder (ASD), which can manifest in various ways such as intrusive thoughts, nightmares and dissociation. While some individuals may experience a rapid decline in symptoms, others might continue to struggle with their emotional and psychological well-being.
Post-Traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
One of the most common and long-lasting consequences of sexual assault is PTSD. Survivors may experience intrusive memories or flashbacks of the assault and persistent fear. They may also avoid situations, people or places that remind them of the traumatic event. PTSD can significantly impair a person’s ability to function in daily life and maintain healthy relationships.
Depression
Survivors of sexual assault are at an increased risk of developing depression. They may experience persistent sadness, hopelessness and a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Depression can lead to changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Anxiety
Anxiety is another common mental health challenge faced by survivors of sexual assault. They may develop a generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, or social anxiety, which can interfere with their ability to work, socialize or maintain relationships. Additionally, survivors may develop a specific phobia related to the assault, such as a fear of being alone or in specific environments.
Dissociation and dissociative disorders
In some cases, survivors may experience dissociation as a coping mechanism to distance themselves from the traumatic event. Dissociation can manifest as feelings of detachment from one’s body, emotions or surroundings. In more severe cases, survivors may develop dissociative disorders, such as dissociative amnesia, which involves the inability to recall important information about the traumatic event.
Substance use and abuse
To cope with the emotional pain and distress, some survivors may turn to alcohol or drugs to escape. Unfortunately, this can lead to substance abuse and addiction, further complicating their path to recovery.
Self-esteem and self-worth
In the short term, survivors may struggle with shame, guilt and self-blame. These emotions can erode their self-worth, leading to long-lasting self-esteem issues. As a result, they may question their judgment, feel unworthy of love or respect and have difficulties asserting their needs in relationships.
Trust and intimacy issues
Survivors may experience difficulties in forming and maintaining close relationships. In the short term, they may withdraw from friends, family and romantic partners. As time passes, they may develop trust issues or fear of intimacy, making it challenging to establish and maintain healthy connections with others.
Sleep disturbances
Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, nightmares or night sweats, are common after a sexual assault. These disruptions in sleep patterns can contribute to fatigue, irritability and difficulty concentrating. Sometimes, sleep disturbances may persist for months or years, significantly impacting a survivor’s quality of life.
Eating disorders
Sexual assault can trigger disordered eating behaviors to cope with emotional turmoil. In the short term, survivors may experience changes in appetite, weight loss or gain and emotional eating. However, these behaviors can develop over time into eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder, which carry physical and mental health risks.
Physical health consequences
In addition to psychological effects, sexual assault can have long-lasting physical health consequences. Chronic pain, headaches and gastrointestinal issues are common complaints among survivors. The stress and anxiety associated with the trauma can also weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.
Re-victimization
Survivors of sexual assault are at an increased risk of being victimized again. This may be due to low self-esteem, impaired judgment or engaging in high-risk behaviors. Re-victimization can exacerbate the psychological effects of the initial trauma and make recovery even more challenging.
Sexual assault can have a profound and long-lasting impact on a survivor’s mental health. We must acknowledge these challenges and provide survivors with the support and resources they need to heal. PPI is dedicated to offering comprehensive care for individuals affected by sexual assault. If you or someone you know is struggling with the psychological aftermath of sexual assault, please get in touch with our experienced professionals. We are here to help.
For more information on our services, visit PPImhs.org or call 866-746-2496, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to schedule an appointment.