The effects of sexual abuse can be devastating both physically and emotionally and can have acute or long-term repercussions for victims, according to the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care. What are the effects of sexual abuse? They include:
- Traumatic injuries: Sexual abuse can be violent in nature and lead to various injuries ranging in severity. Cuts, bruises, scrapes, bleeding, broken bones or fractures, and damage to the pelvic and reproductive region are among the injuries victims can suffer from.
- Emotional disorders: Victims of sexual abuse may face emotional challenges following an abusive incident or reoccurring abuse. It is not uncommon for victims to develop post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) in the aftermath of abuse. Other emotional effects might include difficulty sleeping, mood swings, anxiety, depression, nightmares and flashbacks, and changes in personality. Some victims permanently lose trust in others and have difficulties maintaining healthy relationships.
- Financial loss: In addition to physical and mental suffering, sexual abuse can cause financial losses for victims. Medical bills for treatment of injuries and ongoing therapy are examples of unforeseen financial burdens. Some victims may also have difficulties finding steady employment and managing finances as a result of their emotionally traumatic experience.
- Increased risk of future substance abuse: Studies from the Journal of Addiction have shown victims of sexual abuse to be significantly more likely to engage in substance abuse later in life. This can come in the form of alcohol abuse, as well as the use of hard drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and others.
It is clear that the effects of sexual abuse are very detrimental to victims.
How Often Does Sexual Abuse Happen?
Sexual abuse can affect a person of any age or demographic, though certain groups may remain at greater risk than others. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, women are more likely to experience sexual abuse than men, though both genders remain at risk. Approximately 1 in 5 women will experience rape or attempted rape during their lifetime, and they may experience this form of abuse at a young age.
For men, the chances of becoming the victim of rape or attempted rape is roughly 1 in 38. Almost 25% of male rape victims suffer from sexual abuse prior to 18 years of age.
The prevalence of sexual abuse is startling, and it is important to understand the significance of this problem to help prevent future cases of abuse. While there is no fail-proof method to stop sexual abuse, there are a number of steps you can take as part of your community to help those at risk.
Prevention
Understanding just what are the effects of sexual abuse can help you take preventive measures, and the best way to prevent abuse is to minimize risk factors. Establishing clear channels of communication for those in your life is one way you can help give victims a voice. Some people are embarrassed or scared to speak about an abusive experience. Giving victims a safe place to communicate can help bring abuse to light and stop perpetrators from continued action.
A sense of community and stability is also an important way to prevent abuse. Socially and economically supporting victims without a strong support system can help keep them safe. In public settings, increased monitoring is also proven to be effective in preventing abuse.
If you or someone in your life may have suffered abuse, get help immediately. Sexual abuse is a very serious crime that puts lives in danger. Victims should also seek medical care and develop a treatment plan with medical professionals.
Once a victim is safe from immediate danger, there are legal options available in some cases to recover compensation for emotional and physical suffering.
How You Can Get Help
If you or someone you love was the victim of sexual abuse and you are interested in learning more about legal options for victims, call (800) 794-0444 to discuss your case with Pintas & Mullins Law Firm. There is no obligation, and in some cases, compensation may be available for victims.