Sleeping all of the time Vivid dreams, recurrent nightmares, insomnia, wakefulness Physiological reactions such as tension, head-aches, fatigue, general feeling of soreness or localized pain in the chest, throat, arms or legs. Appetite disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, not eating, overeating Denial, this is a time when there are efforts to repress thoughts of the assault from the mind or consciousness. It is common for a sexual assault to disrupt the survivor's typical routine. Most people continue to work or go to school, but may be unable to do more than what is essential. Others may work all the time or volunteer for every activity or assignment possible in order to block the memories of the assault.
Sexual assault is usually a life altering experience.
Phobias or excessive fears such as fear of crowds, being alone, of the dark, of sleeping Specific fears related to the characteristics of the assailant, such as a mustache, curly hair, the smell of alcohol or cigarettes, type of clothing or car. Distrust of all men, or strangers, or of everyone 3. Survivors are now able to go through their daily activities without having constant memories or feeling that the assault is at the forefront of their mind. Feelings and behavior changes identified in the earlier stages may also be identified in this stage, although not as strong or as often. Survivors do not progress through these stages as if they are steps.