" " How to Deal With Being Raped or Sexually Assaulted — Talkspace – Wellness for Life " "
Wellness for Life
Advertisement
  • Home
  • News
  • Family Wellness
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Mental Wellness
  • Contact us
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • News
  • Family Wellness
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Mental Wellness
  • Contact us
No Result
View All Result
Wellness for Life
No Result
View All Result
Home Mental Wellness

How to Deal With Being Raped or Sexually Assaulted — Talkspace

admin by admin
February 11, 2023
in Mental Wellness


How to Deal with the Effects

Both the physical and emotional effects of sexual violence can be deeply damaging. By learning how to deal with being raped or sexually assaulted, you can find ways to manage your symptoms as you recover and begin to move forward with your life. 

How to cope with physical effects

“Physical effects of sexual trauma can look different for each person who experiences it. If there’s something serious going on, a medical doctor is the best person to assess the victim. Therapy can help with more emotional scars but can also provide coping strategies to help deal with any physical symptoms.” – Talkspace therapist Bisma Anwar, LMHC 

Seek medical attention 

It’s important to be treated by a doctor after sexual assault or rape, even if you don’t think you’ll report the incident. During the visit, you should receive a rape kit and be examined for physical injuries and tested for sexually transmitted infections. Part of figuring out how to cope with sexual assault or rape is making sure that you receive any medical care you might need. 

Learn to recognize your body’s signals

Try to become more aware of the signals that your body is sending you. Check in with yourself to see if you’re clenching your teeth, tensing your muscles, or feeling short of breath. By becoming more aware of these symptoms, you can find better ways to cope. 

Find ways to self-soothe 

Breathing exercises, meditation for stress, and grounding techniques are all effective tools for coping with sexual assault. Not only can these techniques address issues like a racing heartbeat or intense anxiety, but they can also help to bring your attention back to the moment if you’re starting to panic. Experiment with different self-soothing techniques to see what gives you a sense of calm and peace.

How to cope emotionally

“If someone has been the victim of rape or sexual assault, they should not stay silent. Therapy can help support them during this time. They can learn how to move forward with their life and cope with the aftermath of going through such a traumatic experience.” – Talkspace therapist Bisma Anwar, LMHC

Contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline 

The National Sexual Assault Hotline provides confidential support 24 hours a day. Whether you’re looking for advice on how to deal with sexual assault or you just need someone to talk to, you can always get one-on-one help from a specialist. For assistance, call 1-800-656-4673 or chat with a specialist online. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is also available in a similar fashion, at 1-800-799-7233, or by texting START to 88788.

Rebuild your support systems

It’s common for people to isolate themselves when they’ve experienced something as traumatic as rape. Find ways to connect with people and build a support system that can give you strength during the healing process. 

If you don’t feel comfortable reaching out to friends and family, consider joining a support group where you can meet people who understand what you’re going through.

Identify your triggers 

A trigger is a situation or action that reminds you of your trauma. People can be triggered by sounds, dates, smells, or even certain behaviors. Finding your triggers can help you learn how to cope with being raped or sexually assaulted. When you’re aware of things that might trigger you and bring up bad memories, you can avoid them or prepare yourself for an emotional response.

Find ways to manage intrusive thoughts

At times, you may experience unwanted or unexpected thoughts related to your trauma. If you’re learning how to deal with being raped or sexually assaulted, try to find ways to control and manage your thought processes, such as journaling for mental health. Instead of trying to push them away, remind yourself that these are intrusive thoughts that will soon pass. 

Talk to a therapist

Recovering from sexual violence is never easy. Instead of figuring out how to deal with sexual assault on your own, reach out to a mental health professional who can give you the support you need. 

“If you have been the victim of sexual assault or rape, then please reach out for help and support. You might internalize negative thoughts and feelings after this traumatic experience but know that you don’t have to suffer through this time alone. Therapy can help address symptoms of PTSD such as nightmares, flashbacks, and anxiety. It can also provide tools to help you cope with how you’re feeling.” – Talkspace therapist Bisma Anwar, LMHC

Therapy can help you work through your trauma, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and find the best ways to move forward. It’s important to be aware of symptoms when you’re learning how to deal with being raped or sexually assaulted.



Source link

Previous Post

5 anxiety-busting activities for carefree weekends

Next Post

Trail Mix Cookies – Fit Foodie Finds

Next Post

Trail Mix Cookies - Fit Foodie Finds

Recommended

Potential Therapy for Treatment-resistant Depression

January 5, 2023

5 Walkable Cities in the U.S. That Are Perfect Vacation Spots

January 22, 2023

Don't miss it

Health and Wellbeing

‘Zoned Priming’ Combats Springtime Oil Without Leaving You Fully Matte

April 1, 2023
Health and Wellbeing

Collagen Cookie Dough – Fit Foodie Finds

March 31, 2023
Mental Wellness

Common Barriers to Seeking Addiction Treatment

March 31, 2023
News

Telemedicine Improves Quality of Care for Depression

March 31, 2023
News

Experts ‘cautiously optimistic’ about extended reality for mental healthcare

March 31, 2023
News

Will They Try to Make Us Pay for Breathable Air?

March 31, 2023

© Wellness For Life News Hubb All rights reserved.

Use of these names, logos, and brands does not imply endorsement unless specified. By using this site, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

Navigate Site

  • Home
  • News
  • Family Wellness
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Mental Wellness
  • Contact us

Newsletter Sign Up

Loading
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • News
  • Family Wellness
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Mental Wellness
  • Contact us

© 2022 Wellness For Life News Hubb All rights reserved.