PTSD & Sexual Assualt

Did you know that one person is a victim of sexual assault every 73 seconds? And children are victims of sexual assault every 9 minutes? Out of six American women, one has been a victim or at least an attempted victim of sexual assault.

I was 13 when I survived sexual assault. The trauma that I experienced after was just as difficult. 

It was not until years later that I realized the fragments of that trauma still haunted me as a mother, friend, and wife. I did not feel protected within my immediate community, and it is the colorful comments that people make when a woman comes forward as a survivor that are still troubling to this day. 

The questions that arise when a woman comes forward always question the female's intentions. What was she wearing? Why did she go to the hotel? As if this permits anyone to violate another person's body. 

The shame and disappointment that survivors feel and the trauma left behind, as a result, is a work in progress. Each day, that survivor works through the triggers of the assault.

A few difficulties of surviving assault are depression, flashbacks, PTSD, difficulty trusting, anxiety, stress, and fear. The effects of any trauma are not easy but can be managed with the right support.

The next time you hear a story of a woman that has been assaulted, come forward, know that it took lots of courage for her to make that statement. I hope that we all will provide empathy and compassion for our fellow neighbors experiencing hurt and pain. 

If you are a victim of sexual assault, my prayer is that you experience healing throughout your journey and realize that you are not alone.

If you are a victim of sexual assault, there is 24/7 assistance. Please consider calling 1.800.656.HOPE.