What are the effects of sexual assault?
The victim of a rape or sexual assault may experience a range of physical, emotional and behavioural effects. Some of these effects may include but are not limited to:
- fear
- anxiety
- shock
- shame
- self-blame
- numbness
- disbelief
- panic
- shaking
- anger
- loneliness
- embarrassment
- irritability
- guilt
- powerlessness
- loss of control
- vulnerability
- feeling disconnected
- distress
- confusion
- loss of appetite
It is a normal to experience one or more of these feelings. There are a number of agencies throughout New Zealand that can support victims of sexual assault. For a list of support agencies please click on the link below.