FAQ

Sexual trauma refers to one or multiple instances of sexual violations that invoke distress. The term sexual trauma is used based on clinical observations that some survivors do not label their experiences as rape or assault due to familiarity with the perpetrator or the absence of force.

The Department of Justice has defined sexual assault as any non-consensual sexual act proscribed by Federal, tribal, or State law, including when the victim cannot consent. Any non-consensual physical contact, such as groping, fondling, kissing, forcing the victim to touch a body part, statutory rape, and other sexual assault. Sexual assault can happen to both women and men, and the offender can be someone of the same gender. Sexual assault can happen regardless of age. A common term for sexual assault is "rape,"Rape is sexual activity or sexual intercourse carried out forcibly or under threat of injury against a person's will or with a person who is beneath a certain age or incapable of valid consent because of mental illness, mental deficiency, intoxication, unconsciousness, or deception. While no unanimous legal definition clarifies the extent of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse usually refers to sexual acts between an adult and a child, which is a criminal act. Most often considered a subsection of Sexual assault, sexual abuse happens when there's a power imbalance. For example, employer and employee, adult and child. Any sexual activity with a child by an adult or older child. Any adult engaging in sexual activity with a child is considered sexual abuse. Infliction of sexual contact upon a person by forcible compulsion. Or engaging in sexual contact with a person who is below a specified age or who is incapable of giving consent because of age or mental or physical incapacity There are two main types of child sexual abuse: touching and non-touching. Touching includes: Touching a child's genitals. Making a child touch someone else's genitals. Playing sexual games. Putting objects or body parts inside the vulva or vagina, in the mouth, or the anus of a child for sexual pleasure. Non-touching sexual abuse includes: Showing child pornography. Exposing genitals. Photographing a child in sexual poses. Encourage a child to watch or hear sexual acts in person or on a video. Prostituting/trafficking a child Watching a child undress or use the bathroom Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome sexual advances, inappropriate sexual remarks, or physical advances in a workplace or other professional or social situation, especially by a person in authority toward a subordinate (such as an employee or student). Discrimination based on a person's gender or sexual orientation is also considered sexual harassment. Sexual Assualt is defined as illegal sexual contact that usually involves force upon a person without consent or is inflicted upon a person who is incapable of giving consent (as because of age or physical or mental incapacity) or who places the assailant (such as a doctor) in a position of trust or authority Sexual violence can be committed by anyone regardless of gender or relationship status

Healing is an ongoing process just like learning or growing. There's always more self-work to be done. There isn't a time frame that can be given because everyone is unique and their journey to healing is different.

Yes. dissociative amnesia can cause you to forget traumatic events.

Incest is defined as sexual intercourse with a parent, child, sibling, or grandchild. Or sexual relations between people classed as being too closely related to marry each other.

Yes. Incest is abuse situations of parent-child, grandparent -child- aunt/uncle -child, older sibling -younger sibling, family. Or any situation the preparator holds a position of authority over the other party.

Healing from trauma is not about forgetting. Healing is about moving to a point that the trauma isn't bigger than everything else in your day. Healing is about reclaiming your own power.

Forgiving someone who hurt you is not about them. It's about your own inner peace and wellbeing. Learning to forgive yourself allows you to release the pain you are holding from being hurt. When you are able to forgive yourself, forgiving another person is easier. Forgive yourself for not being able to stop or protect yourself from the assault or abuse. Forgive yourself for not having power over this situation. Forgive all the hurt and anger you are holding for yourself. When you release the pain you start to heal and forgiveness comes naturally.

No. Forgiveness doesn't mean reconnection. You can forgive a person and never speak to them or allow any interaction with them. Forgiving a person only means that you are releasing the pain that they caused. Without forgiving you are holding that pain in your mind, heart, and spirit.

Some of the symptoms you can experience as an adult who has survived childhood sexual trauma is disassociation, concentration difficulties, deep feelings of guilt and shame, emotional outbursts, extreme dislike of certain places, smells, sounds, people, or situations, memory loss restlessness, vigilance, 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. Physical symptoms can include anorexia, chronic pain, digestive issues, gynecological disorders, headaches, immune system disorders, joint pain or arthritis, lethargy and listlessness, obesity and compulsive eating, sexual dysfunction. You may be experiencing different, all, or none of these symptoms.

A trauma response is your brain and body's automatic response to danger or trauma. There are four responses that are often used when talking about sexual trauma & abuse: fight, flight, freeze, and fawn (appease). Fight - when you fight back Flight - when you run away either physically or mentally Freeze- when you can't respond in any way Fawn(appease) you give in or say yes.

During Sexual abuse, violence, or trauma, your words no or stop were not respected. This violation causes you to feel like you have lost the option to say no in any situation. Saying yes feels like a choice. If you say yes, nothing can be taken from you because you give it. This inability to say no affects every aspect of life. Sexual trauma, especially childhood abuse, makes you feel like your voice has been taken away.

Sexual abuse or violence violates all of your boundaries. When a boundary has been violated so severely you have trouble putting up other boundaries because of a fear that they will be violated. The earlier the abuse the more trouble you have with setting boundaries.

The first step is to seek help from the VA or another qualified healthcare provider. Speaking with a therapist, doctor, or other trained professional can help you process your experiences and work toward healing. Additionally, various support groups, organizations, and hotlines are available to provide guidance and advice.

Anxiety is a feeling of worry, apprehension, or fear ranging from mild to severe. It is a normal emotion and can actually be beneficial in certain situations; it can help alert us to potential danger and motivate us to take action. However, when the feelings of anxiety become intense or prolonged, they may negatively affect our daily lives in many ways, such as interfering with relationships, impairing job performance, and more. Anxiety symptoms may include physical sensations like shortness of breath or dizziness, anxious thoughts, worries about the future, or avoidance behavior associated with certain activities. Fortunately, there are many strategies for managing anxiety that you can use at home or with the help of a mental health professional. With the right treatment.

Common warning signs include feeling overwhelmed or out of control; having a hard time sleeping; being irritable; feelings of dread; worrying excessively about the future; avoiding certain activities or situations; and physical symptoms like nausea, fatigue, headaches, and palpitations.

Anxiety can cause physical symptoms, such as an increased heart rate, sweating, trembling or shaking, shortness of breath, feeling tired easily, and difficulty concentrating. It can also lead to digestive problems like upset stomach or diarrhea. It can sometimes even result in chest pain and other physical discomforts.

Anxiety can have a significant impact on physical health and is often linked to chronic headaches, fatigue, digestive problems, and other physical ailments. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms so they can recommend treatment options. Additionally, developing healthy coping skills and engaging in relaxation techniques can help manage anxiety on an ongoing basis. Seeking professional help is recommended when necessary.

Anxiety can have serious long-term effects, including damage to relationships, difficulty performing daily tasks, and an increased risk of physical health problems. It’s important to take steps to manage symptoms and seek help from a professional if necessary. Left untreated, anxiety can lead to more severe mental health issues such as panic disorder or depression.

If you feel like your anxiety is impacting your everyday activities, it’s important to talk to someone who can help. This could include talking to friends and family members, engaging in therapy with a mental health professional, or exploring medication options with your doctor. Additionally, developing healthy coping skills and engaging in relaxation techniques can help manage symptoms on an ongoing basis.

If you notice that your symptoms are increasing in intensity or frequency, or if you feel like they’re taking over your life, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional about treatment options. It’s also important to be aware of potential triggers, such as stress or major life changes, that could worsen your symptoms.

It’s not possible to entirely prevent anxiety, as it can be triggered by external factors such as stress or life changes. However, you can take steps to manage symptoms and reduce the severity of your anxiety. This could include talking to friends and family members about your worries; developing healthy coping skills; engaging in relaxation techniques; getting regular exercise; and taking breaks from stressful situations when needed. Additionally, therapy or medication may be helpful for more severe cases of anxiety.

There are many strategies for managing anxiety, including relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness; engaging in physical activity; talking to friends, family, and professionals about your worries; developing healthy coping skills; and making lifestyle changes. It’s also important to take time for yourself and engage in activities you enjoy. Additionally, medications and therapy may help treat more severe cases of anxiety.

Making small changes in your daily routine can help manage symptoms of anxiety. This could include exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals, engaging in relaxation techniques such as yoga or mindfulness meditation, and setting realistic goals for yourself. Additionally, taking time to do activities you enjoy or talking to friends and family members about worries can help reduce stress. Ultimately, it’s important to talk to your doctor if necessary so they can provide additional advice about treatment options.

If your anxiety interferes with your ability to perform at work or school, it’s important to talk to someone who can help. This could include talking to a therapist, engaging in stress management techniques, and exploring medication options with your doctor. Additionally, developing healthy coping skills and taking time for yourself can help manage symptoms on an ongoing basis. Setting realistic goals is also important so you don’t become overwhelmed.

If you know someone struggling with anxiety, the best way to help is to be there for them and offer support. This could include lending a listening ear, talking through worries, offering encouragement, and helping identify practical solutions. Additionally, it’s important to encourage your loved one to seek professional help if necessary. You can also provide resources such as books or online articles that might be helpful. Ultimately, understanding and compassion are the most important things you can offer.

Anxiety often co-exists with other mental health issues such as depression or panic disorder. It is also common for people with anxiety to experience physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or digestive problems. If you notice any changes in your mental or physical health, it’s important to talk to a doctor or therapist about treatment options. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of potential triggers such as stress or major life changes that could worsen your symptoms.

There are a variety of natural remedies that can help manage anxiety symptoms. This could include herbal supplements such as kava, valerian root, or lavender; relaxation techniques such as yoga, mindfulness meditation, and deep breathing; and lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, and eating a balanced diet. Talking to friends and family about your worries can also provide emotional support. Ultimately, talking to your doctor before trying new treatments is important.

If your anxiety is impacting your ability to function in day-to-day activities, it’s important to talk to a doctor or therapist for help. Your doctor can provide advice about medication and therapy options that may be beneficial, as well as recommend lifestyle changes such as exercise, healthy eating habits, and stress management techniques. Additionally, talking with friends and family members about your worries can provide emotional support. Ultimately, seeking professional help is recommended when necessary.

There are several ways you can reduce the severity of your anxiety symptoms over time. This could include regular exercise, eating a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals, talking to friends and family members about your worries, engaging in relaxation techniques such as yoga or mindfulness meditation, and setting realistic goals for yourself. Additionally, developing healthy coping skills can help manage symptoms on an ongoing basis. Ultimately, it’s important to talk to your doctor about treatment options if necessary.

It’s important to provide emotional support and understanding when your loved one struggles with anxiety. Please encourage them to talk about their worries and fears, offer words of comfort and reassurance, and be good listeners. Additionally, it can be helpful to suggest practical solutions that might help manage symptoms such as exercise or relaxation techniques. Finally, provide resources like books or therapy if necessary, and remind your loved one that they don’t have to face their struggles alone. Ultimately, understanding and compassion are the most important things you can offer. The best way to support someone with anxiety is to offer emotional understanding and compassion. Suggest practical solutions for managing symptoms, provide resources such as books or therapy if necessary, talk about their worries and fears, encourage them to take care of themselves, and remind them that they don’t have to face their struggles alone. Additionally, it can be helpful to suggest lifestyle changes like exercising regularly or eating a balanced diet. Finally, listening without judgment can also be beneficial. Ultimately, understanding and kindness are the most important things you can offer.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that's triggered by a traumatic event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Treatment for PTSD often includes psychotherapy and medication.

While the exact cause of PTSD is unknown, research suggests that a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors can play a role in its development. Traumatic events—such as experiencing or witnessing an act of violence or abuse—are often the root cause. Other risk factors may include prior trauma exposure, social support after the traumatic event, and certain personality traits and coping strategies.

Common symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, intense distress when reminded of the trauma, avoidance of situations that remind the individual of the trauma, trouble concentrating, feeling numb and detached from others, and constantly feeling on guard. Other physical symptoms, such as sweating, increased heart rate, and rapid breathing, can also occur.

Anyone who experiences or witnesses a traumatic event can develop PTSD. Some people are more at risk than others; those with existing mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety may have a higher risk of developing PTSD after a traumatic event. Additionally, people who lack a strong support system or have difficulty expressing their emotions are at an increased risk.

Treatment for PTSD typically involves both medication and psychotherapy. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help to manage symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts. Psychotherapy—including cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing—can be effective in helping individuals process the trauma and develop better coping strategies. Additional treatments may include group therapy, stress management techniques, lifestyle changes, and relaxation techniques.

While there is no cure for PTSD, treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the disorder's impact. With a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, individuals can learn to cope better with their symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life.

If you have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event and are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with PTSD, it’s important to speak to a doctor or mental health professional. They can help diagnose the disorder and provide you with treatment options. Finally, remember that recovery is possible—with the right treatment, you can learn to manage your symptoms and live a fulfilling life.

Yes! There are many online communities dedicated to supporting individuals with PTSD. Additionally, local organizations may offer support groups and other resources. It’s also important to remember that friends and family members can be vital sources of support during difficult times. Many organizations are dedicated to providing resources and support for those living with PTSD. Examples include The National Center for PTSD, the American Psychological Association’s Trauma Psychology Division, Give an Hour, Mental Health America, and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. Each of these organizations provides resources, support services, and advocacy dedicated to helping those living with PTSD.

First and foremost, make sure that person is aware of your willingness to listen and help if needed. Offer emotional support and encourage them to seek professional help if necessary. It’s also important to provide resources for factual information about PTSD and mental health, such as websites or hotlines that can provide guidance and support. Lastly, always be respectful when interacting with someone with PTSD; remember that everyone experiences trauma differently, so it’s important to respect their individual needs.

Yes! There are many organizations and programs dedicated to providing support for family members, friends and partners of those living with PTSD. Examples include the National Center for PTSD’s Caregiver Support Program, Give an Hour’s Family Connect program, Mental Health America’s Caregiver Resource Center and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. These programs offer information about PTSD, resources for coping and strategies for supporting loved ones dealing with trauma-related issues. For more information on how to manage and cope with life after a traumatic event, please refer to our website or reach out to your local mental health professional.