Sexual violence violates a person’s trust and feelings of safety. It happens to people of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, professions, incomes, and ethnicities.

Impact on Survivors
An assault may impact daily life whether it happened recently or many years ago. Each survivor reacts to sexual violence in their own unique way. There are long-term and short-term impacts of sexual violence on overall health and well-being. Common emotional reactions include guilt, shame, fear, numbness, shock, and feelings of isolation.

The psychological effects of sexual violence have been linked to long-term health risk behaviors. Reactions can range from PTSD and eating disorders to anxiety and depression. Physical impacts may include personal injuries, concerns about pregnancy, or risk of contracting an STI. Economic impacts of sexual violence include medical expenses and time off work.

–“The Impact of Sexual Violence,” National Sexual Violence Resource Center

Based on the passage, which statements describe the effects of sexual violence? Check all that apply.

Sexual violence affects daily life even if the assault happened years ago.
Sexual violence affects finances due to medical expenses and missed work.
Sexual violence affects health and overall well-being in both the short-term and the long-term.
Sexual violence needs to be forgotten as soon as possible so that it seems like it never happened.