Childhood Sexual Abuse
Childhood Sexual Abuse
Abuse is defined as the physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional mistreatment of a person. Childhood sexual abuse or incest is an abuse that society does not like to talk about; therefore, survivors of sexual abuse may find it extremely difficult to talk about and also how to deal with the effects of the abuse.
The long term effects of abuse can include:
- poor self esteem;
- depression;
- guilt;
- difficulties with trust and intimacy;
- difficulties in sexual relationships;
- self-destructive behaviour;
- alcohol and drug abuse;
- feeling powerless.
Female survivors of sexual abuse are more likely to internalise the effects of the abuse and therefore suffer more from depression and anxiety. Male survivors of sexual abuse are more likely to externalise the effects of the abuse by being aggressive. Both males and females often use alcohol and drugs to try to forget about the trauma of their abuse.
If you or someone you know has experienced childhood sexual abuse or assault, contact me for a free 10 minute phone consultation to see how counselling could support you.