Warning signs/symptoms ⚠︎︎

Signs and symptoms of Sexual Abuse can be different for every person. Below are some potential signs:
  • Fear of intimacy & closeness
  • Distant/social isolation
  • Change in appetite
  • Bruising & marks of self harm
  • Not wanting to be left alone with a certain individual 
  • Avoids taking a bath or removing clothes 
  • Regressive or resuming grown out behaviors 
  • Excessive worry & fear
  • Increase in health problems (stomach aches and headaches)​ 
  • Low self-esteem
  • Mood swings
  • Irregular sleeping patterns

How to help

  • FOR IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE, PLEASE CALL 911
  • Nation Sexual Assult Hotline: 800.656.HOPE (4673) ​​
  • If you know someone:
    • Listen to them (if they are willing to share their story) & do not judge them.
    • Encourage them to practice good self-care.
    • Educate Yourself: The more you understand about sexual assault/ sexual abuse, the more you will be able to help.
    • Let them know that you are an ongoing support system for them.
    • Here are some things you SHOULDNT do:
      • DON'T decide what is best for them.
      • DON'T cast doubt on their story/experience.
      • DON'T minimize what happened. Don't make them feel like it wasn't a big deal.
    • Ask them what they need from you.
  • If you have been abused:​
    • When you feel ready, open up about your experience. Write it down or talk to someone.
    • Seek professional treatment/therapy. 
    • Remind yourself that you are a survivor! You are so strong! 
    • Take care of your physical and mental health.
    • Exercise proper hygiene. 
    • Focus on your emotional self-care: Meditate, go on a walk, or do something that brings you joy. 
    • Spend time with people that make you feel safe.

Help resources

  • RAINN: CLICK HERE
  • US Department of Health & Human Services: CLICK HERE
  • Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals: CLICK HERE​
  • The Hopeline: CLICK HERE
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 800.273.TALK (8255)
  • ​​​Nation Sexual Assault Hotline: 800.656.HOPE (4673) ​
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264
  • CDC Division of Mental Health: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636)​

More on sexual abuse

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