Common Reactions to Sexual Assault and Other Crimes
The after-effects of sexual assault can be devastating. They can be divided into three main categories: psychological, physical, and social. Some of the effects are listed below:
Psychological, Physical, Social
- Guilt and shame
- Changes in appetite Isolation and withdrawal
- Confusion
- Sleeping difficulties
- Difficulty trusting others
- Anger, Stress-related illness
- Helplessness
- Alcohol/Drug abuse
- Interpersonal conflicts
- Depression
- Decline in academics
- Fear and anxiety
- Denial of the assault
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (e.g. nightmares, flashbacks)
