Self Blame: most people who have experienced sexual violence believe that they somehow could have prevented it from occurring. Feeling of failure for not seeing the signs or for not stopping the assault from happening are very common response to being sexually assaulted.

Shame: many people feel ashamed about what has happened. They feel they will be judged by others if they tell them about what has occurred. This shame often prevents people from asking for help.

Low self esteem and lack of confidence: feelings of worthlessness, shame and inadequacy are common responses to experiencing sexual assault.

Changes in overall behavior: your behavior may change from your normal pattern. You may experience sleeplessness, or sleep more than usual. Your appetite may change. You may experience changes in your relationships, in how you feel about sex and intimacy. Your assumptions about your safety in the world may be altered due to this experience.

Remembering: Many survivors try to block the experience from their memory. This is a normal response. At times, particular events, smells etc. will trigger memories or flashbacks. Flashbacks are memories that might make you feel as though the event is happening all over again, right then and there.

Other links relevant to sexual assault: