Warning Signs that someone may have been sexually assaulted
Rape Trauma Syndrome, or RTS, is a label used to identify a spectrum of symptoms that a survivor of sexual assault or harassment may experience. While the symptoms may vary, they are all normal reactions to the trauma that has been experienced. The survivor may feel the effects of RTS immediately after the assault, or even weeks or months later.
Some Signs of RTS
- Flash Backs- reliving the moment of the assault
- Developing fears, usually related to some aspect of the assault
- Depression
- Nightmares
- Feelings of vulnerability, isolation
- Low self-esteem, self-blame
- Unable to feel safe
- Crying for "no reason"
- Problems with memory
- Difficulty with intimacy
- Eating Disorders
- Drug or Alcohol abuse
- Anxiety Attacks
- Risk taking behaviors
|
