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