Rape Trauma Syndrome

Sexual violence, including rape, has long-lasting emotional, psychological, and physical effects on survivors. One of these effects is rape trauma syndrome, sometimes called sexual assault trauma syndrome. Other common mental health disorders after being a victim of sexual violence include depression, anxiety, self-harm, and substance abuse. While being a victim is traumatizing, help is available, and you should seek it out if you’re experiencing symptoms of mental health disorders. Many mental health disorders worsen, and complications occur if you don’t receive treatment. This is true for rape victims and anyone dealing with a traumatic experience. What is Rape Trauma Syndrome? Rape trauma syndrome or RTS is a type of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This type of PTSD occurs specifically after a sexual assault, including forcible rape. In addition to an association with rape, RTS can occur with attempted rape and other forms of sexual assault. RTS or rape-related PTSD includes