Signs of sexual abuse can include:

  • Nightmares or insomnia
  • Seemingly irrational and excessive fear of things such as objects, smells, places, doctor’s visits, etc (these things may be associated with the abuse)
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Self-harm
  • Suicidal attempts or thoughts
  • High levels of anxiety
  • Addiction
  • Chronic unexplained pain
  • Eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia nervosa or eating disturbances
  • Excessive masturbation
  • Inappropriate sexual boundaries
  • Pregnancy
  • Feelings of shame and guilt
  • Poor school performance
  • Regressive childhood behaviours e.g. bed wetting, sucking of thumb