How Sexual Violence can Impact Survivors

Every survivor responds to sexual violence in their own way. Some may show clear signs of distress, while others might seem unaffected on the surface. It’s important to remember that there is no “right” way for a survivor to react and that healing is a deeply personal process.

Emotional and Psychological Impacts

Sexual violence can affect a survivor’s emotions and psychological state in many ways, often their sense of safety, trust, and self-worth.

Anxiety and Fear: Children may feel anxious or fearful, especially around certain people, places, or situations that remind them of the trauma. They might develop phobias or experience general unease.

Guilt and Shame: Survivors often blame themselves for what happened, even though the responsibility lies entirely with the perpetrator. This can lead to feelings of shame and self-blame.

Depression and Sadness: A sense of loss, sadness, or hopelessness may take hold, affecting their mood and outlook on life. Survivors might withdraw from activities they once enjoyed.

Anger and Irritability: Some survivors express their pain through anger or frustration, which may be directed at themselves, others, or the situation.

Low Self-Esteem: The experience of sexual violence can damage a survivor’s confidence and self-worth, making them feel “different” or “broken.”

Flashbacks and Nightmares: Survivors may re-experience the trauma through intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or distressing dreams. This can disrupt sleep and lead to fear of going to bed.

Physical Impacts

The stress and trauma of sexual violence can manifest physically, affecting the survivor’s health and well-being.

Sleep Disturbances: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing nightmares is common. Some survivor’s may develop insomnia.

Appetite Changes: Trauma can lead to changes in appetite, resulting in either overeating or a loss of interest in food.

Physical Complaints: Survivors may report headaches, stomach aches, or other unexplained aches and pains, which can be linked to emotional distress.

Fatigue: The emotional toll of trauma can leave survivors feeling tired or lethargic, even if they’re getting enough rest.

Behavioural Impacts

Changes in behaviour are often one of the most noticeable signs of trauma in children.

Withdrawal or Isolation: Some survivors may become more withdrawn, avoiding friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed.

Clinginess or Separation Anxiety: Younger children, in particular, may become more dependent on parents or caregivers, seeking constant reassurance and proximity.

Aggression or Outbursts: Trauma can lead to difficulty regulating emotions, resulting in anger outbursts or aggressive behaviour.

Avoidance: Survivors may avoid certain people, places, or situations that trigger memories of the trauma. They might also avoid talking about their feelings or the event itself.

Risk-Taking or Self-Harm: Older children and teens may engage in risky behaviours, such as substance use or self-harm, as a way to cope with their pain.

Changes in Academic Performance: Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and lack of motivation can affect schoolwork, leading to a decline in academic performance.