Must Read: Sexual Abuse, Its Possible Long-Term Effects And Ways To Overcome It!

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Sexual abuse is a sensitive topic that needs to be addressed immediately, but sadly, most victims kept mum when this happened to them. Unfortunately, this only worsens the problem as it has long-term effects and its healing process does depend on how the victim copes up with it. Nevertheless, support is the most important thing that should be given to the one who've experienced it.

Survivors of sexual assault are often found with a condition called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. They display a different amount of fear, stress, and anxiety that often leads the to alcohol or other substance abuse, as published in American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. Such thing is done to alleviate the emotional suffering that occurs to them after the unfavorable fate they have.

Meanwhile, other sexually-abused victims turn to self-harm/self-injury where they victim they harm themselves by using a razor blade. Some even develop Stockholm syndrome where the victim develops an "emotional" bond with his/her captor. Other long-term effects include depression and capabilities to trust other people and own self.

Sexual abuse may also lead to sexually transmitted infections such as HIV-AIDS or even pregnancy. Meanwhile, most victims experience flashbacks, sleep disorders, or other disorders that affect the victim's mentality.

For sexually-abused victims and their loved ones, it is important to remember that healing is a process that takes time. They should focus on providing safety measures and self-care. It is also advised to perform small activities that would bring them joy and peace such as meditation, painting, or cooking.

According to Health & Mind Care, it is also important for rape victims to have a supportive person by their whom they can trust and talk with. This person must be able to provide motivation and guidance as the victim goes in the process of healing. Moreover, aside from helping one's self through her own will, method, and time, it is important for the sexually-abused individual to be provided with proper counseling and therapies for fast recovery from mental trauma.