Question

Will I as a sexual assault survivor be able to have a "normal" romantic/sexual relationship someday? I have never had that kind of relationship before. I think I'm afraid of that kind of intimacy and physical touch because my first experience of sexual touch was someone approaching and grabbing me. I hate that there are people who think they can misuse other people's bodies.

Answer

Thank you for trusting us with this question. Sexual assault is a deeply traumatic experience that can have lasting impacts on survivors, particularly in intimate relationships. The fear and anxiety you're experiencing around intimacy and physical touch are natural responses to trauma. It's important to recognize that these feelings don't reflect any shortcoming on your part, but rather are a normal reaction to an abnormal and violating experience.

Many survivors find that sexual assault creates a powerful association between touch and danger, making it challenging to feel safe in intimate situations. This is how trauma affects the brain and body - it creates a heightened state of alertness to potential threats, which can be triggered by situations reminiscent of the traumatic event. In relationships, this might manifest as difficulty trusting partners, discomfort with physical intimacy, or experiencing flashbacks or panic during sexual encounters. These reactions are your mind's way of trying to protect you, even if they're now getting in the way of what you ultimately want.

However, it's important to know that healing is possible, and many survivors do go on to have healthy, fulfilling relationships. The path to healing is unique for each person and often involves professional support, such as trauma-informed therapy. These approaches can help you process your experiences, develop coping strategies, and gradually work towards feeling safe in intimate situations. Your journey to healing is valid, no matter what it looks like or how long it takes.

When you feel ready to explore relationships, open communication with partners about your experiences, boundaries, and needs will be crucial. Many survivors find that taking things slowly and having control over the pace of physical intimacy helps them feel more comfortable. Remember, there's no rush - healing takes time, and it's okay to prioritize your comfort and safety. A supportive partner will understand and respect your boundaries.

Your anger towards those who violate others is justified and shared by many. This awareness can actually become a strength in future relationships, often translating into a deep respect for boundaries and consent. Your experiences, while painful, have given you insights that can contribute to building healthy, respectful relationships.

While challenging, many survivors find that with time, support, and patience, they reclaim their sense of safety and enjoy meaningful, intimate relationships. Your past experiences don't define your future potential for love and connection. You have the capacity to heal, grow, and experience healthy relationships on your own terms. Your desire for a "normal" relationship is achievable, even if the path to get there might look different from others'. You deserve love, respect, and happiness in your relationships, and it's entirely possible for you to have that. Thank you for trusting us with this. We are rooting for you.