They may also suffer from chronic health issues such as headaches and stomach problems. ‍ Symptoms of Rape Trauma Syndrome Physical Symptomsįollowing the trauma, victims may experience physical symptoms such as soreness, fatigue, insomnia, and changes in appetite. Long-standing issues of self-esteem and fear often surface during this stage, and the person may continue to experience intrusive thoughts about the rape. They may change their place of living or employment, or undergo therapy. This is the stage where survivors seek to reorganize their lives. Symptoms can include persistent fear, anxiety, depression, insomnia, nightmares, or difficulty in relationships. They might present an image of 'moving on,' but are privately suffering from symptoms of RTS. In this phase, victims attempt to resume their normal lives while concealing their inner turmoil. Some may react outwardly (expressed style), showing their emotional turmoil openly, while others may appear composed (controlled style), concealing their feelings. Victims often experience a broad range of emotional reactions during this phase, such as shock, fear, and disbelief. This phase generally occurs immediately after the assault and lasts a few days to several weeks. ‍ The Phases of Rape Trauma Syndrome Acute Phase This article will delve into the different phases of RTS, symptoms associated with each phase, and potential methods of support and healing. The term, coined by Ann Wolbert Burgess and Lynda Lytle Holmstrom in 1974, refers to the psychological trauma and the resulting symptoms experienced by survivors.

Rape trauma syndrome (RTS) is a post-traumatic stress disorder that affects victims of sexual assault.

Signs of rape trauma