Sexual Assault and Mental Health
Sexual assault is any form of unwanted sexual contact and can include a wide range of behaviors from verbal harassment to physical and psychological trauma. Sexual assault can have a profound and long-lasting impact on the victim's mental health. Victims of sexual assault often experience a range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and substance abuse. These mental health problems can be persistent and interfere with the victims’ daily functioning. Treatment for sexual assault victims may include counseling, medication, and therapy. Treatment can help them process the traumatic events, regain a sense of safety and stability, and address any mental health issues they may be experiencing. It is important to be aware of the impact that sexual assault can have on an individual’s mental health and to take steps to provide help and support to those who have experienced sexual assault.
← Journal of Woman's Mental Health