Surviving and Thriving After Sexual Assault: Insights from Clinical Therapist Lilena Walker

When a person experiences sexual assault, their life is forever changed. According to the Department of Justice, approximately 70% of survivors experience moderate to severe distress following their incident, which can manifest in anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Clinical therapist Lilena Walker emphasizes that recovery is a lifelong journey, but with the right guidance and support, survivors can learn to thrive. Walker provides valuable advice on how to care for emotional and mental health, prioritize physical wellbeing, and establish a solid support system.

Key Takeaways:

• Every 74 seconds, someone in the United States is sexually assaulted, highlighting the need for support and guidance for survivors.
• Clinical therapist Lilena Walker defines sexual assault as any experience where a person's body is violated, which can include verbal harassment, rape, or other physical violations.
• Survivors may experience a range of feelings and emotions after sexual assault, including self-esteem issues, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
• Therapy can be an invaluable resource for survivors, helping them peel back the layers of their experience and express raw emotions through journaling.
• Physical self-care is crucial in recovery, including repeating affirmations about one's physical body, prioritizing rest, and staying nourished and hydrated.
• Having a solid support system is essential for recovering from sexual trauma, which can improve social connectedness and buffer distress.
• Support groups can be an effective way to recover from sexual violence, providing comfort, support, and community through shared experiences with others.

Statistics:

• Every 74 seconds, someone in the United States is sexually assaulted. (Department of Justice)
• Approximately 70% of survivors experience moderate to severe distress following their incident. (Department of Justice)
• Survivors of sexual assault are at increased risk of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. (Lilia Walker, PhD, AMFT)
• Journaling can help survivors of sexual assault express raw emotions and reduce stress. (Lilia Walker, PhD, AMFT)
• Support groups can be an effective way to recover from sexual violence, with participation in group healing cited as one of the most effective ways to recover. (North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault)

Sources:

• Department of Justice
• North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault (NCCASA)
• Clinical therapist Lilena Walker, PhD, AMFT
• Lilia Walker, PhD, AMFT