It’s common to experience long-term emotional effects, but you don’t have to cope alone — support and treatment can help
Sexual assault can leave deep emotional and physical scars. You might want to move on, but healing isn’t always quick or easy. If you’re having trouble sleeping, feeling anxious or can’t stop thinking about what happened, you might have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
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Psychiatric specialists Nishi Rajguru, CNP, and Adele Viguera, MD, share what PTSD looks like, how it affects your life and what steps can help you heal.
Many people develop PTSD after sexual assault. One study found that nearly 3 out of 4 people who experienced sexual assault had PTSD a month later. A year later, nearly half still had symptoms.
If you’re struggling, you’re not alone — and getting help is one of the best things you can do for your recovery.
Sexual assault is any sexual act or touch without your consent. This can include:
“If someone does something you don’t want or makes you feel uncomfortable, speak up. If they don’t stop, it’s assault,” Rajguru stresses. “Remember that you have the right to say NO even if you’re in a relationship with that person. It doesn’t matter what you’re wearing or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.”
After an assault, you might not know what to do right away. Here are a few first steps to help guide you:
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Finally, remember that whatever happened to you wasn’t your fault. It’s common for survivors of sexual assault to feel guilt or shame, so make sure to be kind to yourself during this time.
Rajguru adds, “Give yourself some grace during this difficult time. If it’s hard, ask yourself: Would you say the same harsh or negative things to a close friend if they were in a similar situation?”
PTSD can affect people in different ways. Some experience many symptoms, while others may notice just a few. But even a handful of symptoms can make everyday tasks feel harder than they should.
You might notice:
“Nightmares are a frequent and disturbing symptom,” adds Dr. Viguera. “Recurring nightmares in adults aren’t normal. But the good news is, treatment can help.”
Whatever your symptoms, the best way to heal is to engage with a trained expert to work through the PTSD.
Healing looks different for everyone. Some people may start to feel better with time and support from loved ones. Others may need help from a mental health professional — and that’s OK. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Talking to a therapist might feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. But several therapies are created specifically to help people heal from trauma. You and your provider can talk about what feels right. Here are some common therapies that help people heal after sexual assault:
Therapy can be powerful — and you deserve care that feels safe and respectful. Some people find medications like antidepressants helpful. Others take prazosin to ease nightmares. Your provider can talk you through options.
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Sometimes, it helps to talk with people who’ve been through something similar. Support groups offer a safe place to share with others — or just to listen — with others who understand what healing really takes.
Professional help is important, but self-care matters, too. Rajguru recommends:
Again, you do not have to face PTSD alone. Trained professionals can support your healing — and connecting with the right resource is a powerful first step.
Resources
National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline | 1.800.656.4673
National Domestic Violence Hotline | 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)
National Sexual Violence Resource Center
Healing from sexual assault takes time, support and self-compassion. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, reach out — whether to a hotline, a healthcare provider or a counselor. You deserve support, safety and healing.
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