Common Effects
While the effects of sexual assault vary greatly from one individual to another, common physical and emotional reactions and responses include:
- Shock and disbelief
- Fear about personal safety; sense of powerlessness
- Guilt, anxiety, fear, humiliation, paranoia, depression, anger
- Sleep disturbances: nightmares, insomnia, frequent awakening
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the assault
- Other stress symptoms, such as, headaches and digestive problems
- Relationship difficulties, e.g., concerns about trust, intimacy, sexual issues
- Inability to concentrate on school, work, or other activities