The Relationship Between Rape Victims And Suicidal Behavior

by- Hannah Jagiri

Depression and post-traumatic stress disorder are more frequently diagnosed in sexual assault survivors. Studies have shown that rape victims were 6.2 times more likely to develop PTSD (Kilpatrick, Edmunds, Seymour, 1992). 

Additionally, more than a third of women who have survived rape have thought about suicide at some point, and 13% have actually made an attempt (Kilpatrick, Edmunds, Seymour, 1992).

However, these effects can be prevented if survivors recognize the signs. Before discussing the signs, let’s look at what passive and active suicidal ideation means. 

Passive suicidal ideation occurs when you have thoughts of self-harm without acting on those thoughts, while active suicidal ideation is when you have suicidal thoughts and take action based on those invasive thoughts (Salt Lake Behavioral Health, 2022). 

The Mind Of Victims That Have Suicidal Thoughts

It is common for suicidal individuals to also have intrusive thinking. Suicidal thoughts are characterized by intrusive thinking, where you may feel constantly bombarded throughout the day, regardless of your emotional state (Asmussen, 2020). 

Intruding thoughts are the harsh static that your brain emits, making you aware and frequently anxious or furious when they come to the surface. The trauma that comes with being raped sometimes leaves Victims feeling hopeless and dejected. Without the right kind of help, depression, and suicidal thoughts can start to creep in (Asmussen, 2020). 

Warning Signs To Be Aware Of

Suicidal thoughts are similar to intrusive thoughts, they keep occurring, and they cloud your judgment. If you notice any of these various behaviors, please see a professional immediately or reach out to a Norm Therapist®(Asmussen, 2020).  

Pay attention if you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following:

• Feeling hopeless and seeing life as meaningless 

• Changes in  eating or sleeping habits

• Always alone and isolated

• Feeling detached from people

Proactive Steps For Suicidal Thoughts

If you’ve been through any form of Sexual Assault and you find yourself having suicidal thoughts, follow the steps below to take charge of your life.

• Seek Help: The only way to prevent suicide is by seeking help from a professional or Norm Therapist®. Don’t wait until it gets worse before you seek help.

• Create A Healthy Sleep Schedule: Get a good night’s rest and remove all forms of distractions.

• Eat Healthy Food: What goes into your body is quite important because you need all the nutrients to balance your brain chemicals.

• Self Care: Take long walks or practice yoga.

You deserve to be happy, and your past isn’t a reflection of your future. Take control of your life and overcome  this battle with those who care. You deserve the peace you so desperately desire.

We at Abuse Refuge Org (ARO) are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being through Norm Therapy®. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse, including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

References

Kilpatrick, D.G., Edmunds, C.N., & Seymour, A.K. (1992). Rape in America: A report to the nation. Arlington, VA: National Victim Center and the Medical University of South Carolina.

What’s the Difference Between Passive and Active Suicidal Thoughts? (2022, January 5). p/https://saltlakebehavioralhealth.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-passive-and-active-suicidal-thoughts/ 

Asmussen, M. (2020, December 11). The Effects of Trauma: How Sexual Assault and Suicide are Connected. Victim Service Center Of Central Florida. ;