Survivors of sexual assault
Many survivors of sexual assault require inpatient treatment to deal with trauma and PTSD symptoms. There are several effective and evidence-based treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and interpersonal difficulties from sexual violence and assault.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy
In this article, we look at psychodynamic psychotherapy, trauma-centric cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), and eye movement desensitization and processing (EMDR) to treat patients after an assault and sexual assault. Several reviews on rape and sexual assault treatment have been published (e.g., Falsetti, 1997—Comments on civilian PTSD treatment; Foa, Rothbaum, and Steketee, 1993; Foa and Rothbaum, 1998), among them.
Early intervention is briefly discussed in terms of therapeutic approaches. Still, the focus is on treating PTSD and other problems in women who have not been recently raped because those who have been abused are less likely to be seen as mentally ill – medical workers. Fortunately, some treatments have proved very effective in reducing the number of negative symptoms associated with sexual abuse and rape.
Infographic on Military Sexual Trauma MST-VA Disability for Military Sexual Assault PTSD
Overcome the traumatic experience
Each of these treatments looks different in practice but helps the person overcome the traumatic experience and move forward in life. In addition, both of these parts of the treatment allow the survivor to relive the event safely and allow survivors to explore their reactions and beliefs about rape.
The treatment allows survivors to overcome intense feelings like shame, fear, anger, guilt, or disgust typical of rape victims. Another goal is to teach survivors how to deal with their reactions to rape without repression or avoidance.
Some experts recommend long-term exposure therapy [helping people gradually move closer to memories and feelings associated with the trauma] or cognitive processing therapy [a special kind of cognitive behavior therapy that helps patients learn to challenge and change unhelpful beliefs associated with trauma ].
Cognitive Processing Therapy ( CPT ) effectively reduces PTSD symptoms
This article focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy (CPT ). The official CPT website describes that Cognitive Processing Therapy ( CPT ) effectively reduces PTSD symptoms associated with a range of traumatic events, including child abuse, fighting, rape, and natural disasters.
A more recent and larger study compared the functioning of victims of sexual or non-sexual assault who received four sessions of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), within about four weeks after the assault, in reducing symptoms of PTSD and leading to a decrease in general anxiety after three months of follow-up. Foah, Hearst-Ikeda, and Perry (1995) found that short-term exercise (combined with relaxation training and cognitive therapy) would increase the intensity of the trauma.
PTSD or signs of sexual abuse
It is best to seek counseling about sexual abuse and meet with a therapist to assess the extent of the symptoms and assess whether you meet the criteria for PTSD. In addition, if your loved one is showing signs of PTSD or signs of sexual abuse, they may need to undergo trauma-based mental health treatment.
Treatment centers provide unconditional support, evidence-based therapies, and personalized treatment plans to their patients to ensure they receive the best possible treatment. Their therapeutic services include crisis interventions, individual therapy, and group therapy. In addition, all therapists at the Center for Sexual Abuse have received specific training in trauma, evidence-based therapies, or information to provide our clients with the highest quality therapy.
Infographic Military Sexual Trauma – MST Symptoms VA Disability Ratings
Trauma resulting from rape, assault, or sexual assault.
They will understand some of the nuances involved in treating trauma resulting from rape, assault, or sexual assault. In addition, someone who has worked with other people who have been raped or assaulted can help you deal with your emotions and give you hope. They also provide valuable information on managing symptoms and working towards recovery.
Like many rape survivors, you can also fight PTSD, anxiety, and depression. For example, marital rape can be deeply traumatic in a relationship that one spouse would otherwise abuse. However, regardless of age or gender, the consequences of sexual assault go far beyond physical trauma.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) one in three women and one in four men will experience at some point in their lives sexual violence, including physical contact. People who are sexually assaulted or commit rape have a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections.