Sexual abuse affects people of all ages and across all demographics. Women, men, and children can all experience sexual abuse, which often leads to feelings of confusion, devastation, and violation. Understanding more about what sexual abuse is and how to support someone who has been a victim of it can help people build up their communities, protect their loved ones, and change the conditions.
What Constitutes Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse includes any unwanted sexual activity. Every individual has the right to decide how to interact with others, which extends to sexual activity. A person might experience unwanted touching or kissing, forced sexual activity, or restricted access to condoms or other forms of birth control. Abusers can use force when committing this type of abuse, or they may try to coerce someone into participating in sexual activity by pressuring or threatening the individual.
The ability to give consent is a significant aspect of whether someone chooses to participate in sexual activity. If an individual is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the person can’t give consent. Being raped or otherwise sexually abused while drunk or under the influence of drugs constitutes sexual abuse. Additionally, children cannot consent to sexual activity.
How to Cope With Sexual Abuse
Dealing with the aftermath of sexual abuse is challenging. One of the most difficult aspects of this situation is that it often occurs at the hands of someone a person knows. Abusers can include family members, spouses, and intimate partners. Both men and women can experience sexual abuse, and it can occur in opposite-sex and same-sex relationships.
The first step in coping with sexual abuse is getting away from the abuser. People who have received sexual abuse may feel confused, angry, or scared, but it’s important to remember that the abuse is not their fault.
After separating from the abuser and getting to a safe place, an individual may seek medical care. This step allows for treating any injuries that may have occurred and testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Individuals who have been sexually abused can report the abuse to the police to take legal action against their abusers. One critical step in the healing process is seeking emotional support and help from a trusted friend or family member. The individual may reach out to a friend or family member or get help from a counselor specializing in sexual abuse support.
Signs a Loved One May Have Experienced Sexual Abuse
People who have experienced sexual abuse might share information about their situations with friends or family members, but some may feel ashamed or afraid to come forward. Some of the warning signs of abuse include:
- Change in mood or personality.
- Overly compliant behavior.
- Fear of being alone.
- Keeping secrets.
- Decreased self-confidence or lower self-image.
- Not engaging with others.
- Nightmares.
- Fear of being around certain people (more common in children).
- Regressive behaviors, such as bedwetting or thumb sucking in children.
Sexual abuse is prevalent and can affect people at any time. Getting help to overcome the feelings associated with the abuse, including violation and fear, can assist people in getting their life back on track and feeling like they can cope with this challenge.
