Did you know 1 out of 6 boys are molested and approx. 1 out of 4 girls are molested by the age of eighteen and the majority of those cases are of incest .
Yet , this is a topic that isn't addressed nearly enough nor do we , society ; make it acceptable to talk about the effects of child molestation which in return , makes it harder for the (now) adult to seek help for their symptoms.
The long - term effects of childhood sexual abuse vary from person to person. There's evidence and tons of research that suggest the following are common symptoms in adults that were abused as children.
➡️ Depression
➡️ Excessive feelings of shame , self -blame , and anxiety.
➡️Eating disorders
➡️ Sexual and relationship problems .
Depression is the most common symptom , at approx 97% of the survivors having experienced depression . Most people don't know how to internalize the experience , making them feel they are to blame and they feel shameful . Years of negative self thoughts , survivors eventually feel worthless .
Approximately 50% of adults who suffered sexual abuse have an eating disorder . Many of the survivors will eat way too much or eat way to little so they look unattractive to de-sexualize themselves .
It's difficult for survivors of sexual abuse to establish intimate relationships . Often , survivors experience difficulty with trusting others , fear of intimancy, and overall love self esteem with who they are . They don't feel to be enough .
This picture was taken around the age I started being sexually abused by a trusted family member .
I know from personal experience , I have suffered from depreession , low self esteem , eating disorders , and all the other symptoms that most survivors experience . It has taken me longer than average and more work than most to understand it wasn't my fault what happened , that I didn't deserve it , and to love my self .
Next time you see someone depressed who won't leave their house , be their friend . Next time you see a fat man waking down the street , try to remember how much shame and guilt he's carrying with him .
Not everyone comes from the same walk of life . Don't judge and teach them how to self love .
Love yourself so that you can love others .