Physical torture may include suspension, beatings, electric shock, deprivation of food and water, sexual abuse and forced ingestion of chemicals. Other types of torture that have primarily psychological effects include solitary confinement, threats, witnessed torture or execution, sham executions, deprivation of sleep, and monopolization of perception. Survivors of torture often suffer from a combination of physical and psychological effects. Physical effects may include scars, broken bones, muscle swelling, stiffness or atrophy, chronic pain, headaches, deafness, blindness and loss of teeth. Victims often suffer from psychological symptoms such as lack of sleep, nightmares, problems with concentration, anxiety, depression, irritability, adjustment disorders, impotence, and feelings of powerlessness, shame and guilt.
Health professionals can provide expert testimony on behalf of individuals seeking asylum.
Physicians can help judges understand the effects of torture and other human rights violations on the asylum seeker's demeanor. This expert testimony can validate an applicant's claim by showing that his or her symptoms are consistent with the applicant's account of trauma. By joining the Physicians for Human Rights Asylum Network, you could provide assistance for torture survivors in the form of an evaluation. There are fifteen centers across the United States that provide medical and psychological treatment for torture survivors.