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April is both Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness month. The following article is the fourth article of a fiveweek series focusing on raising awareness about sexual assault and child abuse. Locally, HCWC served 667 community members that experienced sexual assault or abuse and 937 children that suffered abuse and their protective caregivers.
Understanding the effects of child sexual abuse is crucial to improving a survivor’s overall and long-term well-being. The trauma of the initial event often leads to a range of psychological, emotional and physical health challenges that can persist for years, well into adulthood. Research shows a strong connection between mental health and physical health, with each influencing the other. From behavioral struggles to chronic health conditions, the long-term effects can be profound and deeply rooted.
Traumatic events such as sexual abuse can alter how individuals perceive the world around them. It can lead to loss of trust in others, keep survivors trapped in survival mode, and shape their beliefs and self-perceptions based on the trauma they’ve endured. This ongoing stress response can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, causing the survivor’s mind and body to stay in a constant state of stress and hyper-alertness as a form of self-protection for future events.
Addressing and understanding the mental health challenges faced by survivors of childhood sexual abuse is crucial for improving emotional well-being and supporting better physical health outcomes. Therapy and lifestyle changes that target psychological problems can also alleviate some physical symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Throughout the month of April, in addition to this article series, HCWC will be sharing content across all our social media platforms as well as participating in community events. Be sure to follow on social media for updates on upcoming events. One can find HCWC using the @ HCWCenter handle on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
