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I know I tend toward the lighter side of topics, even when I’m being totally serious, but there is no light side to sexual assault. The term sexual assault is a broad term used to encompass both completed and attempted rape as well as groping, fondling, or any other form of unwanted sexual contact. It’s a weighty, highly charged topic that is often ignored or neglected out of fear or ignorance, but it needs to be addressed.
First the good news: Sexual assault has fallen by more than 50% since 1993. Now the Bad news: Currently, about 18% of women and 3% of men will be a victim of rape or attempted rape in their lifetime. That is still too high. (For more statistics check out the RAINN website)
When I was in college the rate for rape and attempted rape in women was around 40%! And that’s just the ones who reported it. We may never know the actual rates because so many people don’t report their assault, no matter the type. Regardless of the “severity” of the crime or whether it was reported, the possible mental, emotional, and physical repercussions are the same:
For more in-depth information about the effects of sexual assault visit these websites: Joyful Heart Foundation, Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs, RAINN
Although the current numbers for sexual assault come in around 20% for all adults, the actual number of survivors is quite a bit higher. Remember, the numbers have only been falling since 1993; prior to that the numbers were up around 40%, but those numbers are statistical estimates and rely on victims reporting the crime to police or to researchers in an annual survey. Some victims minimize the crime that happened to them and may not give accurate information, or may even deny an assault occurred.
Sexual assault brings with it a whole host of physical, mental, and emotional effects that will affect someone’s desire or ability to get massage. Why is it a big deal if a few less people get massage? Because safe touch is a necessary part of a healthy life; vulnerable populations like babies and the elderly die without it. For some people, (many more than share it with me, I’m sure) massage is the only form of touch they get.
Below is a list of emotional, mental, and physical benefits of massage that overlap the list of effects of sexual assault*:
*Good Therapy has a great article on the psychological benefits of massage, and I got a few of the benefits on this list from them.
The trust and touch issues associated with sexual assault often keep people from getting massage when it would greatly benefit them. But that doesn’t have to be the case. There are safe ways to get the positive touch benefits of massage that will help counteract the stress of daily life, the stress and myriad emotional effects of the assault, and the physical aches and pains associated with everyday activities as well as those of stored trauma.
Things to remember when getting a massage (whether you’re a sexual assault survivor or not):
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, you have an uphill battle ahead of you and you can’t do it alone. I recommend finding a good counselor or mental health therapist. I also recommend massage therapy when you’re ready. If you’re having flashbacks or extreme touch aversion, massage is best done in conjunction with your mental health professional.
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