Sexual violence is a serious problem that has been around for decades and continues to be prevalent today. It involves any type of unwanted sexual activity without consent, such as rape, child sexual abuse, incest, domestic violence, and stalking. Survivors often experience trauma due to the incident that affects their psychological well-being, including their perception of time. They may feel stuck in the past or disconnected from the present moment because they cannot move forward from what happened to them. Therapy can help survivors heal these disruptions caused by sexual violence.
The trauma of sexual violence causes various symptoms in survivors, one of which is the feeling of being stuck in the past. This means that they constantly relive the incident in their minds and find it difficult to let go of it. They may have flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts about the event. These memories are so powerful that they prevent the person from living in the present moment, making them unable to focus on daily tasks or enjoy activities. They also struggle to trust others and build meaningful relationships due to fear of betrayal.
The second disruption caused by sexual violence is disconnection from the present moment. Survivors become detached from what is happening now, losing track of time and space. They may have difficulty concentrating, remembering things, or engaging with others. Some may even forget important events like anniversaries or birthdays. This feeling of disconnection makes it challenging to function normally, leading to isolation and depression.
Therapy helps survivors heal from sexual violence by addressing these disruptions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a popular technique used to treat PTSD, a condition commonly associated with sexual assault. It involves helping the patient identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthy ones.
If someone blames themselves for the attack, therapy can help them see that it was not their fault. CBT can also teach coping mechanisms to deal with stressors in everyday life.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is another therapy method that treats trauma-related issues. It uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, to reprocess traumatic memories. The theory behind this technique is that memories stored in the brain can be 'unlocked' and processed differently when activated simultaneously on both sides of the brain. EMDR helps reduce the intensity of flashbacks and nightmares, allowing survivors to move forward in their lives.
In addition to therapy, support groups can provide an outlet for survivors to share their experiences and connect with others who understand what they are going through. Support groups can give them a sense of community and belonging, which is vital in healing from trauma. Survivors may also benefit from art therapy, meditation, or mindfulness practices that allow them to regulate their emotions and focus on the present moment.
The effects of sexual violence on time perception are complex but treatable. With proper care and support, survivors can overcome these disruptions and live fulfilling lives. Therapy plays a crucial role in helping survivors process trauma and find peace again.