Being harmed – Adult

Families should always feel safe and nurturing. At any point when any member of the family feels controlled, fearful and harmed is never okay.

Sexual abuse is an isolating experience. No two responses to sexual abuse are exactly the same. Many factors will contribute to how your harmed family member has responded so far, how he/she has come to understand the sexual abuse and how he/she is coping now.

The journey may be long and varied. Understanding pace and needs will be a huge help as you both navigate this new path.

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• Physical injuries including bruising in the chest and abdomen, injuries during pregnancy, multiple injuries, or patterns of repeated injury
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• Depression, headaches, sleeping and eating disorders
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• Panic attacks, drug abuse and dependency on tranquillisers and alcohol
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• The person gives explanations that do not fit the other signs and is fearful, lacking in autonomy or self-worth.
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• Signs of self-harm: unexplained cuts or cigarette burns on the wrists, arms, thighs or chest
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• Insisting on keeping fully covered at all times, even in hot weather
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• Low mood, tearfulness, a lack of motivation or interest in anything
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