As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we shed light on how survivors’ and advocates’ mental health is impacted. Sexual assault is a trauma that taxes a survivor’s mental and emotional capacity. The psychological impact roots into a person’s psyche, often manifesting in various mental health conditions that can persist long after the initial incident.
Survivors frequently experience a range of mental health challenges, including:
- Depression*: Survivors are 2-3 times more likely to experience major depressive disorders compared to individuals who have not experienced sexual assault.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)*: Approximately 50% of sexual assault survivors develop PTSD at some point in their lives, compared to about 7.8% of the general population.
- Suicide Risk*: Sexual violence survivors are significantly more likely to contemplate or attempt suicide, with nearly 33% of survivors reporting a suicide attempt in their lifetime.
- Depression and Anxiety: The trauma can lead to deep-seated feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and persistent sadness. Anxiety disorders may develop, making it challenging to form relationships, maintain employment, or engage in previously enjoyed activities.
- Dissociation and Emotional Numbness: We often immediately associate mental health with depression. But, many times mental health issues involve no emotion at all. In fact, as a coping mechanism, some survivors experience disconnection from their emotions or even from their own bodies, which can lead to physically harming oneself.
These issues are further compounded by external stressors, particularly financial challenges. Larger cities and rural areas in Louisiana are experiencing skyrocketing costs of living and seeing the buying power of their dollar exponentially diminish adding another layer of strain. Additional economic challenges directly related to recovery are also present as health care and mental health treatment outside of what our centers can provide is expensive and time-consuming, and not always covered by insurance. Trauma may impact job performance or one’s ability to maintain consistent employment. These pressures can exacerbate day to day challenges, creating a cycle of stress that impedes healing.
The goal to overcome and live without feeling crushed is possible. Coalition centers, while many times face the daunting reality of being understaffed, are there and are doing their best to ease the stress caused by trauma compounded by daily living.
Survivors can find additional resources that can provide ease of mind at the LaFASA website such as the most common questions asked, downloadable healing activity books and journals, brochures, a link to parish crisis centers and the statewide Helpline. The statewide text and chat helpline is worked by trained advocates who can provide resources, walk anyone through centering exercises or just “be there” for someone who needs to unload.
The need to unload is not specific to survivors. Vicarious trauma is real and can be a heavy burden on the shoulders of those who offer their care. We often think of these people as super-human or “rocks.” While very strong, therapists, counselors, advocates and family members oftentimes need to unload. LaFASA’s Crisis Support Specialists want to help and encourage those who need their vessel filled, to contact them. In addition, Via Link can serve the same purpose for both advocate and survivor. These are quick, individual sessions that are confidential, anonymous, and free and may be the spark someone needs to have a better day.
However, if you or someone you know is feeling hopeless, and are thinking about suicide, know you are loved and important, simply for being you. There is help available by calling or texting 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at any time. We support and encourage anyone’s decision to make that brave move and seek outside care. Although this message appears at the end of the article, it is by no means an afterthought. Your life matters, and we want you to truly know that!
Healing is not linear, and every survivor’s journey is unique. This May and beyond, we recognize mental health and extend compassion, understanding, and persistent advocacy as powerful tools in supporting positivity and recovery.
Remember, no survivor walks alone. There is hope, there is support, and there is healing.
*2025 CDC
LaFASA News 