Immediately after a sexual assault, the victim may be controlled and calm, masking feelings or expressing feelings freely and openly. In either case, the victim has experienced a significant emotional and physical trauma.
Victims display a whole range of emotions and responses to sexual assault.
Some may deny some or all of what happened, while others may try to minimize how it has affected them. Victims may be in shock and be confused about what happened or what to do now. The feelings, fears and issues may take a long time to work through. But neither is sexual assault a life sentence. With support, caring, and understanding, victims may go on to live full, productive lives.