Common impacts of sexual assault

Sexual assault is traumatic. Most people will experience similar reactions after the assault.

Trauma is a term that professionals use to describe the universal reactions after sexual assault. It’s not an illness and it’s not an abnormal reaction. It is a normal reaction to an abnormal event.

The list below details common reactions and feelings following sexual assault. Though each person and situation is unique, the list will help you understand that what you’re experiencing is normal.

Depression

How am I going to get through this month? I'm so tired! I feel so hopeless.

Powerlessness

Will I ever feel in control again?

Disorientation

I don't even know what day it is, or what I'm supposed to be doing.

Flashbacks

I'm still re-living the assault! I keep feeling like it's happening all over again.

Fear

I'm scared of everything. I'm afraid to go out. I'm afraid to be alone.

Anxiety

I'm having panic attacks. I can't breathe! I can't stop shaking.

Anger

I feel like killing the person who attacked me!

Physical stress

My stomach (or head or back) aches all the time. I feel jittery.

Dealing with the impacts of sexual assault

Recovery from sexual assault is possible and support is available.