Sexual Abuse and Violence

Sexual violence is any unwanted sexual act or activity. Sexual violence can include rape as well as other forms of assault such as sexual abuse of children or adults, sexual exploitation of children or adults, trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation, sexual assault by penetration, sexual assault, sexual harassment and female genital mutilation.

If you have experienced sexual violence, you may have experienced some of the following:

• Recurrent depression or anxiety
• Panic attacks, phobias and/or flashbacks
• Anger and feelings of worthlessness
• Self-blame and feelings of guilt and shame
• Difficulties trusting others
• Difficulties with intimacy and relationships
• Sleep disturbance such as nightmares and insomnia
• Eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia and compulsive over-eating
• Coping through substance dependency, self-injury, or aggressive behaviour

Please remember that you will get through this – you deserve to, and you will. Sexual violence is never acceptable – no one has a right over your body. Guilt, blame and shame belong to the perpetrator, not to you. Remember, your needs and feelings are important – look after yourself. The length of time you need to help you recover is personal to you but talking things through with a specialist counsellor is an option for you to consider. There are organisations that offer specialist support if you are experiencing or have experienced sexual abuse or violence at any point in your life.