The survivor may show strong emotions and appear visibly disturbed, crying, shaking, or even fainting. The most common reaction immediately following an attack is fear. Survivors often fear that the attacker will return to hurt them again. They may also fear being alone, being in places similar to where the assault took place, or being around people who remind them of the attacker. Survivors often experience Rape Trauma Syndrome, which is a form of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Denial is a common feeling for sexual assault and rape survivors.
Often, survivors deny that the assault has affected them, and may repeatedly assure their family and friends that they are fine. There are several reasons why a survivor may deny the effect of the assault. Denial of the assault can last a brief time, or for several years following the attack. It is not uncommon for survivors to turn to dangerous coping mechanisms in an attempt to numb the feelings, such as abusing alcohol and drugs, disordered eating, or overworking. It is important to empower survivors to express their reactions and feelings.