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Recovering from sexual assault, and the process can be challenging. But you can regain control, rebuild your self-esteem, and learn to heal. This new standpoint recognizes that survivors are not victims defined by their abuse but are particulars with the intensity to overcome the affliction and build fulfilling lives.

What Is Sex Abuse?

Sexual abuse is sexual behavior or a sexual act strained upon a woman, man, or child apart from their consent. Sexual abuse is an act of violence that the assailant uses against someone they perceive as fragile. It does not come from an ungovernable sex drive but is a crime committed deliberately for the purpose of controlling and humiliating the victim.

Challenges Faced by Survivors

Sexual assault survivors/victims come across many challenges. Post-stress disorder, stress, drug and alcohol problems, self-harm, depression, insomnia, disorders of eating, suicide thoughts, and other disorders can come from an assault. It may trigger physical issues such as pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and wounds.

How to Overcome Challenges

No matter the challenges they face, sexual abuse survivors can overcome their trauma and live thriving lives. Survivors can help heal by doing the following:

Seek professional help

A consultation with a professional who has proficiency in trauma-related therapy can be an extremely valuable part of your healing process. They can offer you the instruction and support you need and offer proven, evidence-based treatments that are specially tailored to your experience and needs. 

Foster self-care

Prioritizing self-care is always an essential goal; however, it becomes even more essential when healing from trauma like this. Take time for yourself, make efforts you enjoy, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

Self-care tips include the following:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Doing yoga
• Have time to enjoy your hobbies
• Brainstorming for mental health
• Going on routine walks
• Keeping up with family and friends
• Reading a good book

Set boundaries

As a sexual abuse survivor, it’s also essential to set and enforce boundaries during this time. You should understand how to set boundaries in relationships, when and how you communicate with others, and for your intimate space. Setting boundaries will allow you to feel managed and safe, so you can slowly begin to trust your surroundings again.

Build a support system

Healing sexual abuse requires a strong support system. While the trauma may leave you feeling like you can’t trust anyone or want to spend time alone in a dark room, support is going to be important as you voyage the healing process. Surround yourself with people who know what you went through and can provide you with sympathetic, reassuring support.

Conclusion

Sexual assault is an awful experience, but survivors are not identified with it. They are individuals who have the drive to get past adversity to lead fulfilling lives. We can help survivors take back their power to build a more equitable and empathetic world by supporting them on their recovery and resilience journeys.