Sexual Assault and Seniors
- Part ll
(Part 1 in Primetime Summer 2018)
Christina Campbell, MSW, RSW, Sexologist
Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can
have significant and long lasting physical, emotional
and psychological consequences. The development
of trauma caused by the assault can lead to chronic
stress, anxiety and depression. In most cases victims
go into a stage of self-blaming, social isolation and
low self-esteem which are common symptoms that
victims of sexual assault face. Supporting their decision and maintaining a neutral
position, even if it is not what you would normally
do. Respect their confidentiality by not talking
about it with others. Victims of this crime should be
encouraged to get the help and support they need. For
survivors and their support people, knowing where to
turn to in a crisis is a step that can impact the rest of
their journey.
In order to support a victim of sexual assault you
don’t need to be a counsellor. Most survivors
of sexual assault will tell someone they know.
Therefore, you can help by believing what the victim
is saying. The fear of not being believed or being
blamed for the assault often prevents victims from
disclosing. Listen to them. Avoid questioning their
actions or behaviour as it implies judgement and
blame. Don’t tell them how to feel. There is no right
way to act and feel after an assault. Fear, crying,
shock, numbness, disbelief, embarrassment, anger,
self-blame, guilt and grief are all common reactions.
Don’t minimize what happened by saying it could
have been worse. Avoid telling them to “get over it,
move on” or to “forgive and forget”. Don’t excuse
or defend the perpetrator. There is no excuse for
sexually assaulting a person. The victim may protect
the perpetrator, who is often known, or because
they fear retaliation. It is important to help a victim
feel that they are in control over what happens
next. Respect their choices. Ask how you can help. There are many decisions to make after an assault.
Help is available from many organization such as
social services, a 24-hour help-line, calling 911,
victim services, police department, shelters, medical
treatment and counselling services among others.
Having a strong support system in place is an
important factor in recovery.
Sources:
http://www.citizenship.gov.on.ca/owd/english/
ending-violence/campus_guide.shtml
https://crcvc.ca/links/
https://www.crcvc.ca/docs/sexual_assault.pdf
http://www.women.gov.on.ca/owd/english/ending-
violence/help.shtml
http://www.citizenship.gov.on.ca/owd/english/
ending-violence/campus_guide.shtml#toc3ai
(for more information, see page 31)
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PrimeTime FALL/AUTOMNE 2018