Sexual Assault and Anxiety: How We Can Better Support Young People

Sexual assault is a deeply traumatic experience that can have long-lasting effects on a young person’s mental health, particularly in the form of anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Many survivors struggle in silence, unsure of where to turn for help. As a society, we must do more to provide compassionate, effective support to help them heal.

The Link Between Sexual Assault and Anxiety

Young people who have experienced sexual assault often develop severe anxiety, including:

• Hypervigilance – Constantly feeling on edge, as if danger is always near.

• Panic attacks – Sudden, overwhelming fear that can be debilitating.

• Social withdrawal – Avoiding friendships or relationships due to fear of judgment or retraumatization.

• Sleep disturbances – Nightmares, insomnia, or fear of being vulnerable while asleep.

These symptoms can interfere with daily life, making school, work, and relationships incredibly difficult.

How We Can Better Support Survivors

1. Believe and Validate Their Experiences

One of the most damaging responses to sexual assault is disbelief or victim-blaming. Young people need to hear:

• "I believe you."

• "This was not your fault."

• "You are not alone."

2. Provide Access to Trauma-Informed Therapy

Not all therapy is the same. Survivors benefit from approaches like:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps reframe negative thought patterns.

• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) – Effective for processing trauma.

• Group therapy – Reduces isolation by connecting with other survivors.

3. Create Safe Spaces for Open Discussion

Schools, youth groups, and communities should foster environments where young people feel safe talking about their experiences without shame. Workshops on consent and healthy relationships can also help prevent future assaults.

4. Encourage Self-Care and Coping Strategies

Healing is not linear, but healthy coping mechanisms can help, such as:

• Mindfulness and grounding techniques.

• Creative outlets like art, music, or writing.

• Physical activity to release tension and rebuild a sense of bodily autonomy.

5. Advocate for Systemic Change

We must push for:

• Better sex education that includes consent.

• Stronger legal protections for survivors.

• More funding for mental health services.

Moving Forward Together

Supporting young survivors requires empathy, patience, and action. By listening without judgment, providing the right resources, and advocating for change, we can help them reclaim their lives.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to organizations like Brook, RAINN, or The Survivors Trust. No one should have to face this alone.

You matter. Your healing matters. We stand with you.