CHICAGO, IL – Sexual abuse can happen anywhere and at any time. Sexual abuse can be extremely distressing and painful for those who experience this and the effects can be lifelong. Victims have the right to hold their abusers accountable and seek justice. According to RAINN.org, there are more than 463,630 victims – ages 12 or older – of rape and sexual assault annually in the U.S.
What is sexual abuse?
Sexual abuse is any form of sexual violence including rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment or child molestation. Unwanted advances can be traumatizing for a victim and have earth-shattering effects on the victims physical and emotional well-being.
Not only does it effect a person’s physical and emotional well-being, it can affect various aspect of life including missing work, therapy bills, medical costs and more.
What are the signs of sexual abuse?
There are many signs of sexual abuse and it’s important to be aware of these signs. While these are not all the warning signs of sexual abuse, it’s a good starting point to recognizing and becoming aware of what signs may be.
Behavioral Signs
- Fear of being alone around a specific person
- Sudden change in behavior
- Sudden, unexplained fears of certain places or people
- Fear of being touched
- Substance abuse
- Careless behavior resulting in self-harm
Physical Signs
- Trouble sleeping
- Eating less or more than usual
- Stomach aches
- Physical pain or itching in the genital area
- Problems walking or sitting
- Underwear stained with blood or other discharge
Emotional Signs
- Severe anxiety including nightmares or clinging
- Depression such as withdrawing from normal activities, low self-esteem, frequent crying and/or thoughts of suicide)
- Extreme anger brought out in aggression or increased irritability
Where does sexual abuse take place?
Unfortunately, sexual abuse can happen anywhere, any place and at any time. Many victims live with their abusers, making it difficult to spot the signs of abuse. In other circumstances, it could be someone outside of the family like a coach, teacher, priest, babysitter, neighbor or others. You can be sexual abused at:
- Home
- School
- Public spaces like the mall, movie theater, park and other public spaces
- Mass transportation such as subway, taxi, bus and other means of transportation
- School, colleges or universities
- Religious spaces
- Workplace
- Health care facilities
- Other locations
How do I contact a sexual abuse lawyer?
An experienced sexual abuse lawyer from our law firm can file a case against your abuser. We understand the stress and trauma that’s been endured and the lawyers at the Dinizulu Law Group can help you initiate legal action against the abuser. To receive a free case evaluation, contact us at (312) 394-1920 or visit our website for more information.
