Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse

 Unfortunately, survivors of childhood sexual abuse experience consequences across all areas of their lives. These are known as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).

A person who experiences childhood sexual trauma may have physical injuries and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Traumatic experiences like sexual abuse have also been associated with an increased risk of chronic health conditions later in life, such as obesity, cancer, and heart disease.

Mentally blocking out memories of past trauma is a psychological defense known as dissociation. Because they are so emotionally painful, recollections of abuse are often buried deep. Difficulty recalling childhood memories may be an indicator of past exposure to trauma like sexual abuse.

If you suspect something may have happened to you as a child but you aren't quite sure, seeking treatment can help you to gain a better understanding.

The consequences of childhood sexual abuse can manifest in various ways. Abuse in childhood is also linked to higher rates of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, and risky sexual behaviours that may result in STIs or unplanned pregnancy.

Hypersexuality or sex addiction is also more likely to occur in survivors of abuse. In some people, food addiction and other eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia may also be triggered by sexual abuse. 

The risk of suicide increases for someone who has experienced childhood sexual assault. This includes suicidal ideation and attempted suicides.

"Re-victimization" is also likely for a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. For instance, females exposed to sexual abuse as children are 2 to 13 times more likely to experience sexual abuse again as adults.

In addition, someone who was sexually abused as a child is two times more likely to experience non-sexual domestic abuse by a future partner.

Trauma-focused treatments for childhood sexual abuse often include therapy to process the experience and medication to manage symptoms. If the family of a child who recently experienced sexual abuse is seeking treatment, they are often assigned a case manager who will connect them with a team of healthcare professionals.

There are several different types of therapies for survivors of childhood sexual assault. Depending on whether you are a child or adult survivor, your healthcare professional may recommend different treatments.

For Children

Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is a therapeutic approach specifically for children who are survivors of any type of trauma, including sexual abuse. TF-CBT has been found to be effective in lessening the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD associated with sexual abuse.1 It also helps address the child's underlying thoughts and fears related to the trauma. A child's parent or caregiver attends sessions with them (unless their parent is the perpetrator of the abuse). Any symptoms of PTSD the parent may have with regard to the abuse are also treated during these sessions.12 Family therapy may also be recommended in addition to TF-CBT.

For Children and Adults

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) will also address any negative thoughts or feelings the person has related to the trauma.

 A therapist will work through these with a client, as well as address any undesirable behaviors the client is engaging in—such as substance use—that may be related to the trauma.

Additional types of therapy that are for both children and adult survivors include prolonged exposure therapy (PET), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EDMR).

The aim is to be able to handle situations that may have previously triggered them, as well as reframe limiting beliefs such as "I am not safe" into more positive outlooks.  

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is a more experimental therapy and has not been proven to treat mental health conditions. A therapist will move their fingers in front of the client's face, as the client blinks rapidly and recalls the traumatic experience. Some theorize that this exercise triggers a shift in the way the brain stores memory.

In addition to seeking professional treatment, survivors of childhood sexual assault can add practices or routines to their lives that may help them cope with their trauma.

Taking care of yourself is always important, but especially so when you are coping with trauma. Eating a healthy diet, exercising, and getting adequate rest are all ways of regulating your body's nervous system, which can help with symptoms like anxiety and depression.

You may also find that taking a break from watching or reading the news can help you control your environment. It can be triggering to see a news story about abuse, for instance, when you are trying to cope with your own experience.

While many people are sharing their stories of abuse to empower themselves, you may not want to do that. Remember that this is OK.

 Should you feel the need to speak with someone, consider reaching out to a sexual assault hotline or connecting with a mental health counsellor or therapist. Your choices are valid, and your well-being remains a priority on your terms. 

Journaling is a powerful tool for expressing thoughts and emotions, promoting self-reflection, and navigating the complexities of your inner world. If you're working with a mental health professional, sharing select journal entries can enhance the therapeutic process, providing valuable insights for targeted support. Embrace the written word to cultivate self-awareness and enhance your mental well-being journey.

You don't have to be alone when coping with trauma.  Even if you decide not to share the details, reaching out to friends and family or exploring new hobbies and activities can weave threads of connection into your healing journey. Engaging socially in a healthy manner has the potential to uplift your spirits, providing valuable support as you navigate the path toward recovery.