Sexual trauma is “traumatic” when the person involved feels a sense of fear, helplessness, injury or threat of injury. The level of perceived threat and traumatic reaction to that threat is very individual and almost impossible to anticipate. One person may react far differently than another despite very similar situations.
A person’s response to sexual trauma will change as time passes. It is common to have feelings of fear, grief, sadness, and physical feelings of nausea, dizziness, changes in appetite, and changes in sleep patterns. Reactions to the sexual trauma can last for weeks to months before you start to feel “normal” again.
Most people report feeling better within three months after the sexual trauma. However, if the feelings become worse or last longer, you may be suffering from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression. If you have been dealing with intense to moderate symptoms for longer than three months, you should see a mental health professional.
If you feel you need professional help with atrauma you have suffered, contact us below: