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The impact of childhood sexual abuse on adult survivors cannot be overstated. The after-effects of childhood sexual abuse permeate every area of a person's life. The sexual abuse survivor winds up making many choices based upon his reaction to his past abuse rather than based upon his present circumstances .
The Affects Of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Relationship to Body
Your relationship to your body is most often affected. You may not feel at home in your body or you may dislike your body. Some people will find themselves physically hurting themselves or fantasizing about hurting themselves. The body may also be a vessel of pain so many survivors of abuse will have many illnesses.
Emotions
One may feel out of control and have difficulty managing their emotions. One may not understand themselves and what they feel and experience. Survivors of childhood sexual abuse are often overwhelmed by a wide range of feelings.
Romantic Relationships
An individual who has been abused as a child may have unrealistic expectations of their partner in a relationship. They will often have difficulty trusting others. One may feel lonely even though in a relationship. It is hard for to get close to others or to allow others to get close to you.
Self-Confidence
It becomes very difficult to love oneself. One cannot accept themselves and are often very ashamed of themselves. One may have unrealistic expectations and be terribly unhappy with their lives.
Long-Term Psychological Symptoms of Sexual Abuse
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Panic Attacks
- Low self-esteem
- Stress disorders – PTSD
Survivors may have suffered on their own as a child, but they should recognize that many people are willing and able to help now. Healthy connections with safe and supportive people can help someone overcome the hurt. It is important to understand that survivors' symptoms and coping strategies used in response to abnormal, traumatic events. These coping mechanisms are used for protection during the abuse or later to guard against feelings of overwhelming helplessness and terror. One must be careful that some of these coping strategies do not lead to further health problems.
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