Sexual Abuse
Trauma
Sexual Abuse Trauma
Sexual abuse trauma is distressingly common, particularly among women, with research indicating that sexual assault or childhood sexual abuse is often their most frequent traumatic experience. Statistics from RAINN show an American is sexually assaulted every 92 seconds, and one in three women will face at least one such assault in her lifetime. Notably, rates of sexual assault are considerably higher in women than men.
However, the crime is frequently underreported, with only 63% of assaults and a mere 12% of child sexual abuse cases reported to authorities. Non-reporting victims are less likely to seek treatment for their traumatic experience, leading to potential lifelong struggles with anxiety, intrusive thoughts, depression, and intimacy issues.
Military Sexual Trauma and TRICARE
The incidence of sexual trauma is not confined to civilian life; it’s also a prevalent issue within the military. Known as Military Sexual Trauma (MST), this includes any sexual harassment or sexual assault that occurs while in service. The Department of Veteran Affairs reports that approximately one in four women and one in 100 men have reported experiencing MST. To support those affected, TRICARE, the health care program for uniformed service members and their families, offers MST-related care.
Common Aftereffects of Sexual Assault
Post assault, 94% of women experience PTSD-like symptoms, such as intrusive re-experiencing of the assault, avoidance of reminders of the event, a marked decline in mood or thoughts, and heightened physical reactivity. These symptoms are further influenced by the relationship with the perpetrator – closer relationships often lead to more significant impacts.
The incidence of risky behavior and substance use also increase after an assault, with victims more likely to contemplate suicide, use major drugs, experience work or academic difficulties, and struggle with relationships.
Navigating the Aftermath of Sexual Assault at Canyon Crossing
While many individuals naturally recover from traumatic events, some do not, making professional mental health care crucial. Especially if symptoms persist over time, the risk of developing PTSD heightens.
At Canyon Crossing, we provide trauma treatment tailored to the individual needs of sexual assault survivors. Our therapeutic approach combines established techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) with innovative therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
In addition to talk therapies, we offer experiential treatments like art therapy, music therapy, mindfulness training, ecotherapy, and equine therapy. These approaches are especially beneficial for those who have long avoided confronting deep-seated memories.
Residential Treatment for Sexual Trauma
We want you to know that healing is possible. The world need not be a constant source of reminders and triggers; you can overcome your fear and reclaim your life. By seeking treatment at Canyon Crossing among our safe, women-only residences, you take the crucial first step toward reducing trauma-related symptoms and charting a path towards healing and recovery.
