Why do some survivors of sexual abuse keep it a secret?

Some survivors keep the abuse a secret for many years. They may have tried to tell an adult and met with resistance or felt there was no one they could trust. For these reasons and many others, the effects of sexual abuse can occur many years after the abuse has ended.

Is it normal to be a survivor of sexual abuse?

Most, however, experience pervasive and deleterious consequences. Responses can vary greatly within the seven categories. Also, survivors may fluctuate between being highly symptomatic and relatively symptom-free. This variability is completely normal. Tracy, N. (2008, November 26).

Is there a syndrome for childhood sexual abuse?

Although there is no single syndrome that is universally present in adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, there is an extensive body of research that documents adverse short- and long-term effects of such abuse.

How long does it take to recover from sexual abuse?

For these reasons and many others, the effects of sexual abuse can occur many years after the abuse has ended. Remember that there is no set timeline for dealing with and recovering from this experience. How should I react when someone tells me they were sexually abused?

How does childhood sexual abuse affect the survivor?

It has been shown that survivors frequently take personal responsibility for the abuse. When the sexual abuse is done by an esteemed trusted adult it may be hard for the children to view the perpetrator in a negative light, thus leaving them incapable of seeing what happened as not their fault.

How to help an adult survivor of sexual abuse?

Check out their resources for family and friends to learn more about supporting a man who has experienced unwanted or abusive sexual experiences. To speak with someone who is trained to help, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or chat online at online.rainn.org.