The Victim's Reaction Sexual assault is always traumatic and those who survive often have severe stress reactions similar to those of people who have survived other life-threatening events, such as war or natural disaster. In the hours and days immediately following the assault, shock and denial are common reactions. It's hard to believe the assault really happened and difficult to understand why. The victim may feel strong emotions and appear visibly disturbed, crying, shaking or even fainting. All these reactions are normal.
Victims often feel angry, depressed, confused and irritable.
There are many physical reactions after a sexual assault, including pain, soreness, eating and sleeping disturbances. Some victims do not want to be touched after an assault and others want increased physical affection. This stage can be brief or can last for many years. It is characterized by depression and feelings of loss. Common reactions include fear, nightmares, changes in sleeping and eating, sexual problems, physical aches and pains, difficulty concentrating and loss of interest in usual activities.