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Self-Harm after an experience of sexual violence

*Trigger Warning – This post discusses differing forms of self-harm and how this can impact survivors of sexual violence. If you are struggling or feeling vulnerable, please be mindful of your own self-care while reading this post and take time away from the material if you need to.

Sexual violence is traumatic and can impact self-esteem and self-confidence. Survivors of sexual violence may self-harm to cope with what has happened to them. Many survivors of sexual violence do not have the chance to talk about the complex and painful feelings associated with the trauma they experienced. Self-harm can be a way to cope with difficult feelings like betrayal, anger, pain and isolation, as well to cope with painful memories, overwhelming situations or experiences. Survivors may often feel misunderstood or judged for harming themselves because other people may see their behaviour, but not the underlying reasons for it.