Sexual trauma: Do I have it?

The signs of sexual abuse can manifest in both psychological and physical forms.

These signs may not become evident until years after the abusive actions have occurred. Many survivors of sexual abuse fail to connect their current physical and emotional pain with the past experiences of sexual abuse.

An online survey conducted by National Pain Report and For Grace, a non-profit devoted to better care and wellness for women in pain, revealed that seven out of 10 women with chronic pain had a history of childhood trauma. In this context, "childhood trauma" encompassed emotional abuse, persistent bullying, sexual abuse, witnessing violence, physical abuse, and the death of a parent. Among these, sexual abuse was identified as a factor linked to the development of chronic pain later in life.

For survivors of sexual abuse grappling with chronic physical or emotional pain, the two may be interconnected. Even if legal action was not pursued initially due to the absence of apparent signs of sexual abuse, justice can still be sought for the endured pain and suffering. Collaborating with an experienced civil attorney will assist in navigating the laws related to the recovery of personal damages and determining any applicable statute of limitations for the case. Typical Signs of Sexual Abuse in Younger Children

• Regressive behavior such as bed-wetting or thumb sucking

• Has new words for private parts

• Mimics adult-like sexual behaviors with stuffed animals or toys

• Resists removing clothes during appropriate times such as bath time or bedtime

• Has nightmares or problems sleeping

Typical Signs of Sexual Abuse in Adolescents

• Self-injury

• Sexual promiscuity

• Fear of intimacy or closeness

• Depression and/or anxiety

• Drug and/or alcohol use

Signs of Sexual Abuse Trauma in Adults

Sexual abuse can cause long-term symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, such as:

• concentration difficulties

• deep feelings of guilt and shame

• emotional outbursts

• extreme dislike of certain places, smells, sounds, people, or situations

• memory loss

• restlessness

• vigilance

Interpersonal relationships can be affected. Adults suffering from sexual abuse trauma may have:

• anger issues and issues with holding onto resentment

• difficulty establishing boundaries or saying “no”

• easy stress within relationships

• fear of attachment or intimacy

• fear of being alone

• secrecy, and the inability to open up or trust

Childhood sexual abuse almost always affects sexual behaviors, often leading to:

• confusion about sexual identity

• dislike or fear of sex

• mental escapes in order to enjoy sex

• going above and beyond to “please” others and gain acceptance

• promiscuity

• sexual fantasies of abuse, rape, or confinement

There are also physical symptoms associated with childhood sexual abuse, such as:

• anorexia

• chronic pain

• digestive issues

• gynecological disorders

• headaches

• immune system disorders

• joint pain or arthritis

• lethargy and listlessness

• obesity and compulsive eating

• sexual dysfunction

It's crucial to acknowledge and address the various ways in which sexual trauma can manifest and impact an individual. The effects can indeed range from physical symptoms to deep-seated emotional distress. Seeking professional help is an important step in coping with and recovering from such experiences.

It's worth noting that the signs and symptoms you've mentioned can be associated with a range of experiences, not solely confined to childhood sexual trauma. Trauma, in general, can have a profound impact on a person's mental and physical well-being, and the effects can surface in various ways.

Some additional signs and symptoms that individuals might experience due to sexual trauma include:

1. Flashbacks or intrusive memories: Re-experiencing the traumatic event through distressing memories, dreams, or flashbacks.

2. Avoidance behaviors: Steering clear of places, people, or activities that may trigger memories of the trauma.

3. Hyperarousal: Persistent feelings of anxiety, irritability, anger, or difficulty concentrating.

4. Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.

5. Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships: Trust issues, fear of intimacy, or challenges in establishing and maintaining healthy connections with others.

6. Self-destructive behaviors: Engaging in risky behaviors, substance abuse, or self-harm as a way of coping with emotional pain.

7. Physical symptoms: Chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, or other unexplained physical ailments.

8. Sexual difficulties: Beyond difficulty orgasming, this can include a range of issues such as pain during sex, aversion to sexual activity, or difficulty establishing intimacy.

It's important for individuals who have experienced trauma to understand that they are not alone and that professional help is available. Therapists, counselors, and support groups can provide valuable assistance in navigating the healing process. Trauma-informed care recognizes the impact of trauma on an individual and aims to create a safe and supportive environment for healing.

If you or someone you know is experiencing the effects of trauma, reaching out to a mental health professional or a counselor can be a crucial step towards recovery. They can provide guidance, support, and therapeutic interventions to help individuals cope and move forward in a healthy way.