Sexual Assault
“No two survivors of sexual assault react in exactly the same way, or feel the same emotions at the same time, or heal in the exactly same way. Every survivor deals with the assault in a way that addresses her particular situation. While every survivor should feel encouraged to seek a healing path that works for her or him, there are some commonalities among most, if not all sexual assault survivors. Remember, these are not ‘rules’ for a ‘normal’ reaction to a sexual assault, but rather some of the many emotions and experiences you may have as a survivor.” ¹
Victims of sexual assault are:
“3 times more likely to suffer from depression,
6 times more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder,
13 times more likely to abuse alcohol,
26 times more likely to abuse drugs,
4 times more likely to contemplate suicide.”²
The sexual assault advocates at the Panhandle Crisis Center are here to help. If you were assaulted at any stage of your life, we can help you with counseling and support to address the problems that this may have caused you. If your case is recent, we can give you support with the legal formalities that you may have to face. We also can help you to obtain resources available in our community that could benefit you. Victim services are free and confidential. If you have any questions or need more information, please feel free to contact us at (806) 435-5008. Remember, you are not alone.
¹YOU ARE NOT ALONE-DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND DATING ABUSE RESOURCE GUIDE, INFORMATION, SUPPPORT AND RESOURCE TO USE AND SHARE, Avon Foundation for Women, New York, NY: 2004.
²World Health Organization, 2002.