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Common Feelings
A victim may be angry at the assailant, the legal system, friends, family, and often themselves. Talking about anger to someone who will listen is often helpful.
Terror
Rape shatters the victim's sense of safety and justice. Rape is often life-threatening and always unexpected. Fear of being re victimized is a natural response.
Guilt
Victims may find that, in an effort to regain some control, they blame themselves. Remember, the victim is not to blame; the criminal is.
Withdrawal
Victims may feel numb and want to be alone or stay somewhere that feels safe and secure. They may not want to talk to anyone about the rape for fear of judgments and the hope that, if they don't talk about it, it will go away.
Why Me?
Victims may have a strong need to understand why they were attacked. Understanding and working through the trauma may be a long and difficult process. Our counselor can talk with a victim about this and other feelings.
Common Reactions
- Shock & Disbelief
- Denial
- Withdrawal
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Exhaustion
- Nightmares and Flashbacks
- Lowered Resistance to Illness or Infections
- Anxiety, Irritability, Mood Swings
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