Survivors Surviving Survivorship

Survivors can deal so many issues caused by sexual violence. Some effects are more commonly known while others aren’t. It’s important that we’re equipped with this information so that we a better understanding of the power of trauma.

Trauma is strong enough to alter our brain chemistry and how we view the world. It literally changes us and can cause us to questions our own sanity. By having the understanding that what we’re dealing with is tied to the crime, we’re better able to start to regain some control over our lives.

We’re not crazy. We’re not making anything up. We’re not helpless. We’re managing trauma. And, that results of the trauma can look like any of the following:

• Suicidal Ideation

• Physical Weakness

• Panic Attacks

• Anxiety Attacks

• (Pseudo) Depression - not an actual mental illness but feels like it

• Anxiety

• Addiction - to food, drugs, shopping, tattoos, etc.

• Hair Loss

• Change in Sleep Pattern - insomnia or excessive sleeping

• Weight Fluctuations - gain or loss

• Eating Disorders

• Hyposexuality or Hypersexuality

• Changes in Sexual Identity

• Changes in Sexual Attraction

• Mood Swings

• Acts of Violence

• Hatred Toward the Gender that Violated Us

• Poor Hygiene - not cleaning ourselves daily (shower, brushing teeth, washing hair)

• Change in Socialization - fear of being alone or desire to self isolate

• Loss of Appetite

• Nausea

• Memory Loss

• Disassociation

• Agoraphobia

• Inability to Trust People or Our Own Decision-making

• Dislike Being Touched

• Self Harm - cutting, burning, mutilating physical appearance

• Abusive Relationships - with family, friends, and lovers

• Phantom Pain

It’s important to know that this isn’t the full list of what we survivors endure. But, it’s a start.

If you or anyone you know is realizing any symptoms, please contact a safe and credentialed support resource who can help navigate the complexities of trauma that’s a result of sexual violence.