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Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
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Rape trauma syndrome (RTS) is a post-traumatic stress disorder that affects victims of sexual assault. The term, coined by Ann Wolbert Burgess and Lynda Lytle Holmstrom in 1974, refers to the psychological trauma and the resulting symptoms experienced by survivors. This article will delve into the different phases of RTS, symptoms associated with each phase, and potential methods of support and healing.
This phase generally occurs immediately after the assault and lasts a few days to several weeks. Victims often experience a broad range of emotional reactions during this phase, such as shock, fear, and disbelief. Some may react outwardly (expressed style), showing their emotional turmoil openly, while others may appear composed (controlled style), concealing their feelings.
In this phase, victims attempt to resume their normal lives while concealing their inner turmoil. They might present an image of "moving on," but are privately suffering from symptoms of RTS. Symptoms can include persistent fear, anxiety, depression, insomnia, nightmares, or difficulty in relationships.
This is the stage where survivors seek to reorganize their lives. They may change their place of living or employment, or undergo therapy. Long-standing issues of self-esteem and fear often surface during this stage, and the person may continue to experience intrusive thoughts about the rape.
Following the trauma, victims may experience physical symptoms such as soreness, fatigue, insomnia, and changes in appetite. They may also suffer from chronic health issues such as headaches and stomach problems.
Victims often undergo severe psychological distress, including emotional instability, increased anxiety, flashbacks of the incident, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Feelings of guilt, shame, and humiliation are also common, often causing the victim to withdraw socially.
The trauma can also lead to changes in behavior. Some victims may become excessively alert or wary, a state known as hyperarousal. Changes in relationships and sexual activity are common, and some victims may resort to substance abuse as a coping mechanism.
Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), can be beneficial for RTS victims. Therapy can help them process the traumatic event, manage symptoms, and regain control of their lives.
Peer support groups provide a safe space for survivors to share their experiences and feelings. They offer an opportunity for victims to connect with others who have had similar experiences, which can be incredibly validating and comforting.
Simple self-care practices such as regular exercise, healthy eating, maintaining a sleep routine, and engaging in relaxing activities can also help manage the symptoms of RTS and promote healing.
Rape trauma syndrome is a deeply disturbing psychological condition that results from the horrific experience of sexual assault. It's important for survivors and those around them to understand the phases and symptoms of RTS in order to provide the right support and treatment. Healing from RTS is a gradual process, but with appropriate professional help, peer support, and self-care, survivors can rebuild their lives and find a path towards healing.
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy for anger management, anxiety, borderline personality, chronic illness, depression, dialectical behavior therapy, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues and trauma and PTSD. Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.
You don't have to face these challenges alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.
Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections and building social skills concerning relationship issues.
We infuse cognitive behavioral & EMDR techniques in our group therapy sessions for PTSD & Trauma. Get effective and affordable treatment for trauma.
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