What Is Rape Trauma Syndrome and How Does It Affect You?
The Rape Trauma Syndrome (RTS): What is it?
A kind of post-traumatic stress disorder known as rape trauma syndrome (RTS) is defined as follows: (PTSD). Sexual assault-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a kind of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite the fact that rape is the most prevalent kind of sexual assault, RTS may occur as a result of other forms of sexual assault, such as an attempt to rape.
Rape trauma is viewed as a syndrome because there are normal and constant actions, thoughts, and emotions that occur consistently in victims of sexual assault, despite the fact that it is considered more of an emotional and psychological disorder than it is a physical one.
In certain cases, victims of sexual assault may have one or more of the RTS symptoms, and they may continue to feel them for months or years after the rape or attack.
Anna Wolbert Burgess, a nurse, and sociologist Lynda Lytle Holmstrom created the phrase “rape trauma syndrome” in 1974, and it has been used ever since. Find out more about RTS, including its phases and causes by continuing to read this article! Find more about the many treatment choices available to you!
RTS Stages are a collection of stages that are used to train soldiers.
Depending on the physical manifestation of the sexual assault, RTS is often divided into three phases. You can see how it progresses in three stages:
Adjustment to the Outside World Is Sudden and Severe
Inflammatory response or integration
In the minutes, days, and weeks after a sexual attack, the acute stage of RTS manifests itself. During this stage, according to the Rape Abuse and Incest National Network, victims may be divided into three groups.
The victim is visibly agitated and distraught, as expressed by others.
The situation is under control: rather than being visibly distressed, they are in shock and acting as if everything is OK.
Shocked Victims are often bewildered and have difficulty recalling the details of their assault.
Changes made in the direction of the horizon
The Outward Adjustment stage of RTS is the next linear step of RTS after the first, or acute, phase has occurred. In this stage, which may continue anywhere from weeks to months or even longer, the sexual assault victim does not seem to be as shocked and unsettled as they were in the acute phase that followed the attack. This stage can last anywhere from weeks to months or even longer.
This second phase of RTS demonstrates that, despite the fact that a person seems to be OK and going on in life, this is not always the case.
Some people may attempt to explain or excuse the attack, behave as if it wasn’t a huge problem, refuse to talk about it, or engage in extreme behaviors such as moving away or changing relationships during this stage.
People going through this period are often nonetheless very traumatized, regardless of the coping strategy they choose.
Integration or Resolution?
After coming to grips with the reality that they were sexually assaulted and making every effort to move on, the victim enters the third and final stage of RTS.
There is a chance that they may never forgive their aggressor or feel completely secure in their sexuality again, but they make a conscious attempt to go on with their lives. This phase is, however, not permanent, and some individuals may find themselves back in one of the two prior phases.
Symptoms
RTS stresses that there is no unique human reaction to every given incident, but that there are common patterns that may be identified. To provide an example, in the aftermath of a sexual assault, there are a variety of sensations, ideas, and behaviors that might manifest themselves over the next few days, weeks, and months.
RTS is characterized by the following symptoms, which are the most well-known manifestations:
Anxiety
Disorientation and other symptoms of shock
Crying
There is a change in my mood
Disgust at one’s inability to do anything
Withdrawal
In the case of a rationalization or denial,
Dysfunction in the bedroom
Nightmares and flashbacks are common.
Confusion on what to do
Anger, anger, or rages are all acceptable emotions.
Shame or self-blame are two emotions that people experience.
Depression
A suicidal ideation or thinking process
Preventing sexual assault in the first three months is critical. People Who Have Suffering From Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
RTS is a kind of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that manifests itself in a specific set of behavioral and psychological effects as a result of sexual assault or other traumatic event. It is possible for victims of sexual assault to suffer from RTS even if they were not abused in a manner that meets the legal definition of rape, which requires penetration to be committed.
For example, under the category of sexual assault, RAINN considers the following activities to constitute sexual assault, and you may develop RTS as a result of these actions:
A failed rape attempt
Contact with a male partner under duress
Sex actions performed against one’s will
If you have been the victim of a sexual assault that does not meet the FBI’s criteria, you may be suffering from RTS as a result. The occurrence of RTS may occur whether you knew your attacker as a casual acquaintance, whether they were a loved one, or if they were an absolute stranger. If the incident lasted many hours or just a few minutes, it is possible that it will occur. No matter where the incident occurred (your house, the assailant’s home, or in public), it is possible.
What are the signs and symptoms of having it?
The chances of experiencing RTS are quite high if you have been the victim of sexual assault, and this is particularly true if you have been raped. In the event that you have been the victim of sexual assault in the past, it is possible that you have suffered RTS without realizing what you were going through.
Even if you responded in a way that was different from any of the symptoms listed above, it does not indicate that you did not progress through RTS.
Because everyone’s minds are different, it’s possible that you processed it differently than everyone else. In the event that you were raped or otherwise sexually attacked, it is quite probable that you had, and maybe now are experiencing, traumatic stress syndrome (RTS).
Treatment
Raped and sexually assaulted victims might experience a trauma that seems to last forever. Numerous victims believe that their lives have been permanently altered as a result of the incident.
It is possible to alleviate the symptoms of RTS, which is a good thing. No action will completely erase the occurrence from your memory, but seeking assistance may aid you in moving on from the attack and living a full and happy life once again after it has occurred.
Send Messages to Those You Love
Experiencing something alone is unnecessary, and there is no advantage to doing so. Share your experience with someone in your life who can assist you in finding a competent crisis counselor.
Become a member of a support organization.
Participating in a support group may help you feel and realize that you are not alone in what you are going through on a deeper level, even if you already know this. Suicide prevention and intervention programs exist in most major cities as well as on the internet for survivors of sexual assault.
Identify and seek the services of a therapist who is trauma informed.
Any kind of therapy may aid in the healing process after a traumatic event, but in this case, you will be best served if you seek treatment from a trauma therapist who has experience working with assault victims. The subtypes of this treatment category are many; you may need to experiment in order to identify the one that is the greatest match for you.
Having RTS may be a frightening and interminable experience, especially in the first phases of the process. It is possible to go forward on the road to recovery by implementing one or more of the recommended therapy stages.
If you are a victim of sexual assault, you may call the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 to obtain confidential counseling from a trained staff member at a local RAINN affiliate location.
Why the First Three Months Are Vital for PTSD Survivors
One month after surviving a sexual attack, according to a new research, 75% of those who participated matched the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis.
Psychological trauma (PTSD) develops when the mind and body stay in a state of constant fight or flight.
From cognitive processing therapy to yoga, there are several options for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a sexual attack.
Sexual assault is a tragically prevalent event, one that leaves survivors with a tremendous emotional and physical weight as a result of their experiences. A few surprising figures are shown below. Only in the United States is it estimated that someone is sexually raped every 68 seconds. In the United States, more than one in every three women and almost one in every four males has been the victim of sexual assault that included physical contact at some time in their lives.
A 2015 report from the United States Transgender Survey indicated that 47 percent of those who took part in the survey had been sexually abused at some point throughout their lives. Although these incidents seem despicable in the time, they have the potential to cause long-term mental health problems for those who have survived them.
Trauma, Violence, and Abuse recently published a research in which they looked at the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after sexual assault using a sample of 2,106 survivors. People who had experienced a sexual assault satisfied the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) one month after the incident. After three months, the percentage decreased to 54%, and after a year, it was down to 41%! Symptom healing was faster in the first three months and subsequently declined as time progressed, according to the researchers.
Experiencing trauma may alter our perception of the world, and if we get trapped in a particularly negative frame of mind, this can have a detrimental effect on our overall quality of life.
VARKOVITZKY, RUTH L., Ph.D.
It was discovered in the research that sexual assault is an unpleasant and painful occurrence that might cause long-term stress. “Sexual violence has an influence on the nervous, endocrine, and immunological systems,” says Elizabeth L. Jeglic, PhD, a psychology professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice at the City University of New York and coeditor of “Sexual Violence: Evidence Based Policy and Prevention.” Following an attack, the body goes into fight or flight mode, releasing the stress hormone cortisol to prepare for the battle ahead.
In addition, Aimee Daramus, PsyD, author of “Understanding Bipolar Disorder,” explains that “[this] reaction that helps us cope with a stressful incident in the present is turned on long-term instead of returning to baseline.” It is possible for individuals to acquire amnesia surrounding traumatic events, as well as intrusive thoughts and flashbacks, according to the author.
It is possible to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The fact that PTSD after a sexual assault is prevalent does not lessen the agony and suffering that the condition causes the individual. Renewal Psychology is owned by Ruth L. Varkovitzky, PhD, an experienced clinical psychologist who specializes in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) across the lifespan. “Trauma can change the way we see the world,” says Dr. Varkovitzky. “If we get stuck in a very negative mindset, this can severely impact our quality of life.” The experience of trauma may result in a cycle of avoidance, in which we avoid certain people, places, memories, and sensations, causing our world to become more narrow. ” There are times when we feel stuck and as if there is no way out.”
People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may not all experience it at the same time or in the same manner, but there are certain indications and symptoms to watch for. According to Lena Queen, LCSW, MEd, a professional somatic sexologist and owner of Journey Wellness and Consulting Group, symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a sexual assault include the following:
Self-confidence and trust in others are lacking.
An inability to be compassionate toward oneself or to be compassionate toward others.
Shame or guilt that is held inside oneself
Suicidal thoughts or action, including self-harm
Images from the attack resurfaced.
Hypersensitivity to risk as it is perceived.
Inability to recall information.
Energy consumption is low.
Worry or despair are two emotions that people experience.
Inability to have a sexual relationship with someone else
Incapable of experiencing pleasure and delight, both sexual and nonsexual
Trouble with touch and with one’s own sexuality and gender Identity crises
Dissatisfaction with one’s appearance, such as body dysmorphia
Lack of capacity to establish and maintain boundaries
Having experienced sexual assault, a person’s sense of self might be shattered, and they may see themselves as a completely different person than they were before the attack occurred. As Daramus points out, “sexual assault is distinct from other kinds of post-traumatic stress disorder in that victims do not often suffer the same denial and guilt.”
If a victim has doubts about what occurred or does not get support from others, Jeglic says that the likelihood of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rises.
Preventing early mortality in women with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression
Natural healing, according to the findings of the research, may occur more quickly in the first three months after a sexual assault.
1 In the immediate aftermath of an attack, however, not everyone is prepared to address their feelings or is aware that they are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Furthermore, some individuals may take a long time to come to grips with the idea that they were attacked.
It is always possible to get through the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) no matter when you seek care; the process may simply take a little longer. In part, according to Jeglic, this may be related to the fact that negative beliefs and avoidance have become more embedded in the mind.
It is essential that treatment for survivors of sexual trauma be client-centered, intersectional, harm-reduction, sexpositive, healing-centered, and easily available. Dr. LENA QUEEN, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and medical doctor (MED).
When a person is ready to seek therapy, there are several alternatives available. According to Varkovitzky, “We know that our gold-standard therapies for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be beneficial whether someone was attacked recently or has been waiting for the proper moment to start their recovery process.” You should seek out professionals in cognitive processing treatment or extended exposure if mental health facilities are accessible to you, she advises. Both come under the umbrella term of cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Therapie de traitement de la cognitive and de la perceptual et de la perceptual et de la perceptual (CPE). This kind of cognitive behavioral therapy assists patients in challenging negative beliefs and automatic thoughts that have been triggered by trauma and are contributing to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health problems. Likewise, patients delve into the attack and their own perceptions of what has happened.
Persistent Contact with the Environment (PE).
When used in conjunction with avoidance, this strategy assists people in confronting trauma-related memories and triggers. External assignments or sessions may be used to expose you to new information.
Desensitization and reprocessing of eye movement patterns (EMDR). Using this method in treatment is yet another option to look into. It may aid in the processing of thoughts and memories related with traumatic events or circumstances.
The treatment of survivors of sexual trauma should be client-centered, intersectional, harm-reduction, sex-positive, healing-centered, and easily accessible, according to Queen. Other therapies, such as hypnosis, somatic sex therapy (also known as pelvic floor therapy), and massage are also recommended by Queen in addition to the ones already listed. Breathwork, sex coaching, cannabis, and yoga are some of the non-clinical practices that may be used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after sexual assault, according to her.
The following statement is true: “Some individuals can heal from trauma on their own; others may need some structure and assistance.” In order to seek for support, it is usually a good idea to connect with someone you can trust. According to Varkovitzky, “there are a large number of certified health professionals who have received considerable training in assisting survivors throughout their recovery process.”
Individuals who have strong social ties may have less severe PTSD symptoms.
The following are resources for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
You can find a wealth of information about PTSD online, whether you’re unclear if you’re suffering from it, would want to learn more about treatment choices, or would need guidance on how to assist a loved one. A few of the alternatives available are as follows:
A national sexual assault hotline is accessible 24/7 at 800-656-HOPE or via an online chat service provided by RAINN (the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network). They also provide thorough information on their website.
Affiliation with the American Psychological Association PTSD and its treatment are covered in detail.
There is a National Center for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD and its treatment are covered in detail.
Healthy living with Leda. Groups for survivors have been formed.
The Trevor Project is a non-profit organization that helps troubled young men who have lost their parents. Services for LGBTQ+ people in need of crisis intervention and suicide prevention. You may reach a confidential hotline at 866-488-7386 or use an online chat service at any time of the day or night.
The YWCA Sexual Assault Response Center is located in New York City. Sexual assault survivors aged 12 and older in Delaware may get help via a free and confidential rape crisis hotline. At 800-773-8570, you may reach a confidential hotline that is open 24 hours a day, seven days per week.
Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network is a national network of queer and trans therapists who practice in communities of color. When looking for a mental health practitioner, you might consult this directory of queer and trans people of color.
What This Means for You and Your Family
Sexual assault and its consequences, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are not the fault of the victims, and this cannot be overstated. That they are going through this is not a show of weakness in any way, nor is it something they must do on their own. In the words of Varkovitzky, “survival and flourishing in life after sexual attack is different for everyone.” The effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) might make us feel like we are alone in our experiences, yet there are a plethora of other people out there who are also going through their own rehabilitation.”
