Initial Reactions

Typical initial reactions to victimization may include feeling on edge, denial of the event, being angry at everything, feeling fearful, or experiencing extreme loneliness, just to name a few. Some people will have a hard time believing they went through something so traumatizing, others will become angry and lash out, while some will process the event introspectively. There is no right way to feel or act after a traumatic event happens, and there is no wrong way either.

Most people’s initial reaction to victimization is a feeling of shock, or what mental health professionals call ‘emotional shock.’ Emotional shock, which is a part of the flight-fight-freeze response, is the brain’s way of dealing with an intense stressor where the brain is unable to process the situation and freezes itself to help protect the mind and body (Darcy, 2014). Symptoms of emotional shock can include numbness, inability to express emotions, difficulty with thinking or rationalizing, disassociation (disconnection from self), or the inability to speak or move (Gupta, 2023)⁸ . While it can be difficult to tell if you are in a state of emotional shock, the symptoms mentioned may show up as brain fog or lack of focus, feelings of depression or hopelessness, as well as physical symptoms such as stomachaches or headaches, or extreme exhaustion (Darcy, 2014). Emotional shock can be the reason some people go about their daily life after a traumatic event, reflecting how the brain has not allowed them to start processing what happened.

Another initial and very common reaction to victimization is sleep problems. This can show up as problems with insomnia, waking frequently during the night, or experiencing nightmares related to the event. For some, dreams become vivid reenactments of the trauma; for others, they’re anxiety-inducing, fragmented clips or thoughts of the event. The lack of restful sleep can further exacerbate other responses to trauma such as increased emotional distress, difficulties with coping skills, and can contribute to a decline in physical health. Specifically for insomnia, persistent insomnia after trauma can be linked to the later development of PTSD, depression, and chronic fatigue (Germain, 2013)⁹.

Unfortunately due to persistent stigma and victim blaming, other initial reactions may include trauma-related guilt shame, or self-blame. It’s not uncommon for survivors to second guess their decisions or actions leading up to the victimization with thoughts of what they “should have” or “should not have” done (Pugh et al., 2015)¹². This experience of repetitive self-blame and guilt, along with a persistent focus on the distressing event, may inhibit a survivor’s ability to move forward and lead to a cycle of rumination, further impacting their self-worth and sense of insecurity (Zahn et al., 2015). For other survivors, this trauma-related guilt may increase their anxiety and fear, resulting in the hypervigilance of their surroundings.

Once a person has experienced a victimization, it may be difficult for them to feel safe again with a study showing only 3 out of 10 people who have been victims of crime report feeling safe in their community after the event (Alliance for Safety and Justice)¹ . This lack of perceived safety can lead to an initial withdrawal after a victimization with the desire to avoid reminders of the event or avoid “putting on a brave face,” making survivors want to isolate from friends, family, and social situations (Khiron Clinics, 2020)¹⁰. While these feelings of guilt and self-blame for the victimization are common thoughts and beliefs that many survivors may have, the victimization is never the victim’s fault.

Short-Term Effects

Surviving a violent or life-altering event takes a toll on people mentally, physically, and emotionally. Survivors may experience short-term outcomes that may progress into clinically significant concerns. Others may experience a shift in the way they perceive the world around them, including difficulty trusting others, isolating from friends or family, or feeling uncomfortable and vulnerable in social settings. Ultimately, each person moves through trauma in their own timeline with a range of different short-term responses.

While stress is a common response to trauma and may gradually decrease over time, for some, the stress and emotions of the event may progress into a mental health condition known as Acute Stress Disorder (ASD). ASD is a mental health condition that can be diagnosed if symptoms present between 3 to 30 days after the trauma and lasts no more than six months. ASD may cause significant distress or impairment in multiple areas of life with symptoms that include intrusive thoughts, memories, flashbacks, or nightmares about the event, as well as being easily startled or on high alert, and feeling irritable and restless. Survivors may also experience the inability to feel positive emotions, feel detached from themselves (often referred to as dissociation), and may have the desire to avoid things like people, places, or reminders of event. ASD symptoms can decrease, increase, or stay the same based on the persons current situation or other traumatic events (American Psychiatric Association, 2022)².

Other short-term effects survivors may experience are changes in the way they relate to others including friends and family. When a person is victimized, especially for survivors of sexual violence where the victimization deprives a survivor control of their body, it’s understandable that relationships and interactions with people in their lives and the world around them change. For some people, these changes manifest as withdrawal or irritability in close relationships; for others, it appears as clinginess or a heightened and constant need for reassurance. They may feel less trust toward people, even those they knew before the trauma (Campbell & Wasco, 2005)⁴, and these changes to relationships can create strain and confusion for both members in the relationship, especially if the change is extreme. Many times, the survivor is not fully aware of the change in behavior and cannot vocalize why their behavior has changed, which can create more distance or conflict and some survivors may avoid romantic or sexual relationships altogether for a time (Campbell & Wasco, 2005)⁴.

Lastly, trauma doesn’t just affect the mind; it can take a toll on the body. Fatigue and exhaustion are common short-term reactions, as the stress response keeps the nervous system in a heightened state of alert. This hypervigilance places the body in “overdrive,” meaning the body is working overtime by continually scanning for potential threats and using significant energy to maintain a sense of safety. Additionally, it’s not uncommon for survivors to also report physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, dizziness, or digestive issues (Van der Kolk, 2014)¹⁵. These physical symptoms present because of the mind-body connection, where the body suffers and shows the pain the mind is going through. When a person is under enduring stress, the body releases stress hormones, called cortisol and adrenaline, which strain the body. This stress may also create tension in the body resulting in pain if it doesn’t get released (Van der Kolk, 2014)¹⁵.

Long-Term Effects

While some survivors gradually recover without major long-term effects, others will experience longer conditions with more chronic impacts. Some of these chronic issues may include posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance use problems.
PTSD is diagnosed when a person experiences, witnesses, or learns of an event involving threatened death, serious injury, violence, or sexual assault, and research shows that about half of individuals with acute stress disorder go on to develop PTSD if left untreated (Bryant, 2011)³. Women are shown to be more likely to develop PTSD than men, and some risk factors for PTSD may include genetics, previous trauma, and lack of social support.

Symptoms of PTSD may present as intrusive memories or flashbacks, avoidance, negative mood changes, and hyperarousal; these symptoms may persist beyond one month and impair daily functioning (American Psychiatric Association, 2022)². Additionally, survivors may have a delayed onset of up to six months, and secondary survivors may suffer from the disorder as well.

Some survivors may have more narrowed long-term conditions like depression or anxiety, and many may use substances to help relieve symptoms, which can progress into a substance use disorder. 25-50% of women who have been diagnosed with PTSD following a sexual assault report self-medicating with alcohol and drugs (Lefkowitz, 2024)¹¹. Trauma-related depression is a reactive depression, meaning it occurs because of the trauma and may not have presented without the traumatic event happening. This is the same for trauma-related anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or other more severe anxiety disorders like agoraphobia, an anxiety disorder which may lead to isolating in one’s home.

Coping and Recovery

Life after victimization will never be the same but that doesn’t mean things will never get better. Survivors may go through many stages of processing trauma and learning to live their life again. This is not an easy process, but research shows that for some the traumatic event may lead to a positive outcome and increased resilience (Dell’Osso et al., n.d.)⁶ . Accessing support can be a key factor in recovery. Many survivors turn to friends, family, faith communities, or specialized organizations such as the Victim Service Center. Professional help through trauma-informed therapists, advocates, or crisis hotlines can provide coping strategies, validation, and overall help through recovery. Peer support groups can also help survivors feel less isolated and can help to rebuild trust in others. Importantly, supportive responses from others are associated with reduced PTSD symptoms and better long-term outcomes (Ullman, 2016)¹⁴.

It’s also important to note that not all responses to trauma are negative, and in fact some survivors may find resolve in what researchers call post-traumatic growth (PTG), which is a positive psychological change that may occur as a result of the trauma. PTG is an outcome of trauma where survivors have a greater appreciation for life and their future, as well as an increased positive self-perception, better relationships, self-awareness, and self-confidence (Dell’Osso et al., n.d.)⁶. This phenomenon of PTG is linked to a greater resilience and feeling stronger for having survived the event, a shift of priorities and purpose, and increased empathy and compassion for other survivors.

Sexual assault and violent crimes leave lasting imprints on survivors, shaping their emotional, physical, and psychological well-being in more ways than one can imagine. It is difficult to accept and quite unfair that after being a victim of a violent crime or sexual assault, it is the survivors’ job to pick up the pieces of their life. While initial, short-term, and long-term reactions can vary, it is important to remember that every survivor’s experience is valid and deeply personal. The journey through trauma often involves painful phases of shock, guilt, depression, and disrupted relationships, but it can also lead to growth, strength, and resilience. The journey to healing and moving forward is one that takes a lot of effort, resilience, desire, and it does not follow a set timeline or path. After victimization, it may be hard to see a future where the pain subsides and life can go back to normal, especially when a person is in the early stages of processing. However, by breaking down myths, addressing stigma, and fostering supportive environments, we not only honor survivors’ experiences but also create space for recovery and sometimes even post-traumatic growth. That is why it is so important to seek help and support from resources like the Victim Service Center, mental health professionals, or friends and family. Trauma may change a survivor’s life; it does not have to define it.

References

¹ Alliance for Safety and Justice. (2024). Crime survivors speak: A national survey of victims’ views on safety and justice. https://asj.allianceforsafetyandjustice.org/crime-survivors-speak-2024/

² American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev)

³ Bryant, R. A. (2011). Acute stress disorder as a predictor of posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 72(2), 233–239. https://doi.org/10.4088/JCP.09r05072blu

⁴ Campbell, R., & Wasco, S. M. (2005). Understanding rape and sexual assault: 20 years of progress and future directions. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 20(1), 127–131. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260504268604

⁵ (Darcy, 2014)

⁶ Dell’Osso L, Lorenzi P, Nardi B, Carmassi C, Carpita B. Post Traumatic Growth (PTG) in the Frame of Traumatic Experiences. Clin Neuropsychiatry. 2022 Dec;19(6):390-393. doi: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20220606. PMID: 36627947; PMCID: PMC9807114.

⁷ García-Esteve, L., Torres-Giménez, A., Canto, M., Roca-Lecumberri, A., Roda, E., Velasco, E. R., Echevarría, T., Andero, R., & Subirà, S. (2021). Prevalence and risk factors for acute stress disorder in female victims of sexual assault. Psychiatry Research, 303, 114240. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114240

⁸ (Gupta, 2023) Identifying and Coping With Emotional Shock https://www.verywellmind.com/emotional-shock-definition-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5214434

⁹ Germain, A. (2013). Sleep disturbances as the hallmark of PTSD: Where are we now? American Journal of Psychiatry, 170(4), 372–382. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2012.12040432

¹⁰ Khiron Clinics, (2020) The Subtle Effects of Trauma – Social Withdrawal https://khironclinics.com/blog/trauma-and-social-withdrawal/

¹¹ Lefkowitz, M. (2024). Sexual assault and drug use. EBSCO. Retrieved at https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/health-and-medicine/sexual-assault-and-drug-use

¹² (Pugh et al., 2015) The role of guilt in the development of post-traumatic stress disorder: A systematic review. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25997098/

¹³ Thompson & Tapp, 2023. Criminal Victimization, 2022 Alexandra Thompson and Susannah N. Tapp, PhD, BJS Statisticians https://bjs.ojp.gov/document/cv22.pdf

¹⁴ Ullman, S. E. (2016). Social support and recovery from sexual assault: A review. Aggression and Violent Behavior, 31, 38–50. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.avb.2016.06.014

¹⁵ Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.

Trigger Warning: This blog post discusses the connection between Suicide and Survivors of Sexual Violence and discusses both topics throughout this post.

In light of the completed suicides of both Daisy and Melinda Coleman, we want to recognize the deep complexities and impact that trauma can have on an individual and their support systems. We created this content prior to the news of the passing of Melinda. However, we want to recognize how this news could inform this content. If you need additional support please reach out to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or Victim Service Center at 407-500-HEAL (4325).

Hi there readers! Before we get started, I wanted to do a check in to make sure that you are doing okay. Reading the content in the VSC blogs can be very trying, and I am so proud of you for wanting to take control of what you can and learn more about sexual and otherwise violent crimes. This resource is specifically made for survivors to learn more about sexual violence and suicidality, but there will be a resource coming soon that is written for those who are part of the support systems. 

With this being said, I invite survivors to stay present and aware of the sensations that come up for you while learning more about this topic. It can be very anxiety provoking to get through this article. If you find yourself feeling panic, tightness of chest, loss of breath, racing heart rate, or other signs of a panic attack, please refer to the following resources: the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, utilize the chatline by texting HOME to 741741, or call the Victim Service Center’s helpline at 407-500-HEAL (4325). All of these resources are available 24/7.

What is the connection between sexual trauma and suicidality?

Research has shown that survivors of sexual violence are more likely to be diagnosed with disorders like Major Depressive Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Both of these diagnoses are two that have the most impact on stress and anxiety, only falling short to the anxiety disorders. When there is a presence of severe stress and anxiety, it is much easier to experience intrusive suicidal thoughts and contemplation of suicide. According to statistics, over ⅓ of women who have experienced sexual trauma have thought about suicide. 

Important note: If you are experiencing levels of stress and anxiety that feel unmanageable, you can meet with either a VSC or external counselor to get support. The presence of stress and anxiety does not always lead to suicidal thoughts and ideation, but it creates more of a risk factor. 

What is the difference between passive and active suicidal ideation?

Passive Suicidal Ideation is when you are thinking about suicide or self harm, but you do not have a plan to complete the act.

• Example: Having intrusive, unwanted thoughts about killing or harming yourself with prescription medication, but not having the medication or a plan to buy medication.

Active Suicidal Ideation is when you are thinking about suicide or self harm, and you do have the plan to complete the act.

• Example: Thinking about killing or harming yourself with prescription medication, having the medication, and planning to take them at 6:00 pm after work on Friday.

*If you have active suicidal ideation, please call an emergency hotline or 911.*

What are intrusive thoughts and how are they connected to suicidal thoughts?

The most present mental symptom connected to suicidal thoughts is the intrusive thought. No matter where you are emotionally, your brain will give you many thoughts throughout the day, and most of them are ignored. Intrusive thoughts is the static that your brain gives you that is harsh enough to make you aware and oftentimes scared or angry at what is being brought up to the surface. An example of an intrusive thought is thinking, “Oh there is a bridge! I wonder what would happen if I drove off of it.” Scary, right? When these thoughts come up, oftentimes we do anything and everything to alleviate these icky feelings and get rid of the thought. What if I told you that doing that only makes your brain happy, and therefore causes more thoughts to come? Your brain loves the feeling of solving the problem and coming back to safety, so it wants to recreate this sensation. 

Here’s a video to explain more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laeYq51SYA0

It is very important to note that if you feel great fear and anxiety from these thoughts, it means that you want the opposite to happen. Oftentimes people can find great comfort in knowing this because it shows that the action behind the thought will most likely not happen.

What are the warning signs of active suicidal ideation?

There are many different signs of active suicidal ideation. Here are some of them:

• Feeling as though everything is hopeless/doesn’t have meaning
• Experiencing significant changes in eating and sleeping habits (not wanting to get out of bed)
• Feeling alone and isolated
• Having suicidal thoughts

What should I do if I’m thinking about killing myself?

The most important thing to do in a suicidal crisis to either call an emergency hotline, go to an emergency facility, whether that be the hospital or a mental health agency you trust, or call 911. Here are some more things you can do during the process:

• Reach out to a mental health professional you trust
• Find ways to empower yourself
• Recognize an emergency: are you or someone else in immediate harm?
• Know where to go
  • Victim Service Center: 407-500-HEAL (4325)
  • The hospital (911)
  • A mental health agency you are familiar with
• Seek support from these resources

What can I do to take care of myself?

Whether it be before, during, or after both the violent experience and/or suicidal ideation, there are many different ways that you can take care of yourself.  Let’s look at some questions through two different lenses: physical and emotional.

Physical examples

• What does your sleep schedule look like? What can you do to help get back into a steady sleep pattern and feel more rested?
• What kind of food are you putting into your body? What food helps you feel capable of taking on the day?
• Is there any kind of movement that you enjoy? What activities can you do to help feed your soul?
• How can you reset your routine? How might your routine look different with the unique circumstances in this moment? What can you do to start and/or end your day on a good note?

Emotional examples

• What do you like to do for fun? What do you have to look forward to?
• Do you like to journal? What words inspire you today?
  • Note: journaling does not have to be a novel of all of the day’s activities. It can be as simple as writing a mantra or three things you’re grateful for today.
• Do you have a spiritual practice that brings you joy? What do you do to relax and rejuvenate? 
• Who are people that can reach out to, that you trust? What are some ways you can be with them? 
• Where is a special place you can go, whether it’s alone or with others, that helps you feel comfortable and grounded?

Through answering these questions, you can create a self-care routine that is best suited for your unique experience!

As always, you can utilize the FREE Victim Service Center counseling resources by calling 407-500-HEAL (4325) for crisis support. VSC has many great counselors who can provide psychotherapy, support regarding medical and legal procedures, and more all for free to those who have experienced sexual assault and other forms of violence. We also have referrals that can be made to help give you the best care for your unique circumstance. 

Never forget: you are worthy of the happiness and peace of mind that you seek. You and your mental health deserves to be a priority no matter what. You may be experiencing extremely difficult emotions during this trying time, but you are also strong and resilient. You will get through this! 

The Victim Service Center Podcast aims to normalize the dialogue of sexual violence and other social issues through housing discussions with professionals that serve victims and survivors of trauma, and those who have experienced violence.

We are celebrating Start by Believing Day as well as the start of Sexual Assault Awareness Month by debuting the first episode of the VSC Podcast!

On our first episode we are talking about the importance of believing sexual assault survivors for #StartbyBelievingDay. Emilie, VSC Education Coordinator, is joined by Sheronne, VSC Speakers Bureau member and sexual assault survivor, and Johnnie Kramer, a VSC advocate.

You can listen to our Podcast on Youtube: https://youtu.be/90K5Gofn1QI

Or on Anchor (https://anchor.fm/vsc-podcast) or Spotify(https://open.spotify.com/show/4YePgkbsD3hYslQgGWvV0m) ! Coming soon to other Podcasting Platforms.

Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It’s important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you’re in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.

by Molly Kennedy, Microbiology and Cell Science UF grad, VSC Volunteer

As a pre-medical student, I have been exposed to many practices and situations in the medical field. I have also learned a great deal about patient rights and HIPAA laws. After talking to friends and family members about these topics, I learned that a majority of people are unsure or do not know what their rights are in a medical setting. Talking to a health professional can sometimes be intimidating, but knowing your rights can help facilitate conversation and give you the confidence to make sure you are getting the best care possible.

A word you will see in documents and hear a lot in health care is HIPAA, but do patients really know what that is? HIPAA, or the Health Insurance Accountability Act of 1996, is a set of rules and regulations that protect patient’s medical privacy. These rules include things like being able to receive a copy of your medical records and that medical information shared with/obtained by a medical professional that can be connected with you or your treatment (this is called PHI: protected health information) is protected. This confidentiality is so important for patients, especially for survivors of sexual violence. Sometimes after an assault, medical treatment is necessary and having patient confidentiality and privacy laws allows survivors to seek help in confidence when needed. Disclosing an assault to a health professional or anyone can be very difficult, so knowing that anything you say to a heath professional is protected is so important. For more information about HIPAA and a list of your rights under HIPAA, please visit: https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/guidance-materials-for-consumers/index.html

Throughout my years volunteering and shadowing in the medical field, I have realized the power that I have in my medical decisions. Many people who are not exposed to medicine in an academic way may not know the power they have. This power is called patient autonomy. Patient autonomy is the patient’s right to make their own decisions about their care and treatment. This right keeps health care professionals accountable and allows patients to have a role in their treatment. For example, if a physician walks into your exam room and attempts to touch you without washing their hands, you have every right to ask them to clean their hands before examining you. Patient autonomy allows you to choose whether or not you consent to medical treatment. You can suggest different treatments to your physician, you can get a second opinion from another health care professional, you can refuse to allow medical students in your exam room and you can even consent to some parts of treatment and not consent to others. Patient autonomy is especially important for survivors of sexual violence. Having a role in their treatment allows survivors to have a sense of control over their bodies again. Patient autonomy allows survivors to consent to or not consent to medical treatments including a forensic exam. A forensic exam can be exhausting and invasive, so it is important for survivors to know that they can consent to parts of the exam and not consent to others if they wish. For more information about your patient rights, please visit: https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/ethics/patient-rights

Before going to your appointment it is important for you to set boundaries for yourself so you can properly communicate them to your health professional and to research any questions you have for them about your condition or treatment.

For example:

• If you do not want medical students to observe your treatment or treat you, communicate this with your physician: “Dr. ________ I do not feel comfortable having medical students in my exam room and I would not like to receive treatment from them.”
• If you do not like to have a certain part of your body touched during exams, communicate this with your physician: “Dr. _______ I am having this exam today and do not want to be touched here______.” Or at any time during an exam you can say, “Dr. ____ I do not feel comfortable right now please stop the exam.”
• If you have any questions or concerns bring them up with your physician: “Dr. ______, I was researching online and read about a new successful treatment, would it be possible/more beneficial for me to do this new treatment, instead of______?”

Patient autonomy and HIPAA laws are so important for patients to be knowledgeable about. Do not be afraid to use your power and rights to make informed decisions about your health care.

If you need help:

• Victim Service Center 24 hour helpline: (407)-500- HEAL (4325)
• Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
• Trevor Project TrevorLifeline: 1-866-488-7386
• Harbor House – Domestic Violence Shelter: (407)-886-2244

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUVtdMqXB3w&t=244s

11 years ago, a stranger broke into my home. After sexually assaulting me at gunpoint, he took me to an ATM where he robbed me of every penny I had. It was the scariest, and most traumatizing, thing I have ever experienced.

As someone who has experienced the court process firsthand, I can tell you a victim’s suffering does not end with the attack. Rather, it continues as we navigate a complicated system which works for the criminal, but not the victim.

I’ve been a supporter of Amendment 6, Marsy’s Law for Florida, since it was first introduced because I believe victims and their families should have the same exact rights and protections as those accused or convicted of a crime.

I believe these rights and protections should exist in the state’s most powerful legal document so there is no question as to what rights victims are entitled to and whether or not they are enforced.

What is in the constitution right now is not enough –

• It is ambiguous and leaves too much up for interpretation.
• Statutes can easily be changed from one legislative session to another.
• The accused have specific protections outlined in the U.S. Constitution, crime victims only receive a single vague sentence in our state constitution with no real means of enforcement.

Amendment 6 presents an opportunity to strengthen these laws, by:

• Ensuring crime victims, or their families in the event of a tragic loss of life, are afforded similar constitutional protections to the accused.
• The rights of the accused would not change or weaken, however, the two parties will finally be considered equal in the eyes of the law.

This means everything to crime victims. We deserve to be seen as those with real emotions who went through a painful ordeal we did not ask for, rather than simply evidence in the case.

My story would have been different had Marsy’s Law been in place.

By acting as his own counsel, my attacker was afforded access to all of my personal information as well as those of my witnesses. He not only stole my identity but made harassing phone calls to me and my witnesses from jail, in the attempts of scaring us out of testifying against him. There was nothing anyone could do – the state attorney and sheriff’s departments’ hands were tied. As wonderful as they were in handling my case, they were only as strong as the law allowed them to be and that meant his right to identify his accuser trumped my right to privacy and to be free from intimidation.

Marsy’s Law would also provide crime victims with a voice, which is something I wish I had in the court process. After all, I certainly didn’t have a say in being attacked, so shouldn’t I at least have one in deciding what happens?

My attacker was originally given four consecutive life sentences given the violent nature of his crime. Recently, though, his sentence was reduced to just 50 years, and he will now be eligible for parole one day.

I was not notified when he was appealing to the Supreme Court. I was not asked if scheduling the re-sentencing hearing on my birthday was a convenient day for me. And my input was not taken into consideration at the hearing, even though the court’s decision directly impacted my safety and the safety of others.

Crime victims all across the state have similar stories. All we are asking for are the same rights given to criminals, nothing more and nothing less.

Crime victims deserve to be protected under our state’s most powerful legal document, just as a person accused of a crime does. Amendment 6 would provide Florida crime victims with many fair, common-sense protections, but there are a few things this law would NOT do.

This law does not guarantee outcomes. It does not interfere with prosecutorial discretion. It does not add a burden to the system. And, it does not infringe upon the numerous protections afforded to those accused or convicted of a crime.

What my attacker did to me was horrific, but I certainly do not believe my rights should outweigh his.

All I want is to be viewed as an equal party, to know that I have a voice, and that my voice matters.

I implore you to remember my story and stand up for past, present, and future crime victims when you go to vote this election season.

Imagine sitting in the crowded waiting room of the local hospital’s Emergency Department .  Around the room you see children with fever or crying of pain, others with lacerations needing to be sutured, 

You, however, are there because you have been sexually assaulted.  You may not have any outwardly visible trauma as you wait for an exam which will take a long time to complete, so others are taken for treatment before you.   

This was the case in the Emergency Department where I worked in the late 80‘s – early 90‘s when I first became interested in Forensics and the specialty of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners.  The Emergency Department physicians and nurses accompanying them were reluctant to begin an exam which they knew would be very time-consuming, often taking them away from other patients for more than an hour, and because they did not do sexual assault exams that often,they were unfamiliar with the process.  Having to testify in court was another issue. 

 We  know that the physical trauma and the mental trauma can be devastating to a victim of sexual assault so these patients need compassionate care in a timely manner not only for their well being but also for effective evidence collection. Enter the Specialty of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner.  The SANE is there for one patient; the victim of the assault.  The SANE is an RN with advanced training in sexual assault, evidence collection, packaging, and maintaing the chain of evidence.  Additionally there is a Board Certification that is administered by the International Association of Forensic Nursing that validates, through extensive testing, the knowledge and proficiency of the nurse examiner and designates the nurse as a SANE-A ; an experienced nurse in the examination of adults and adolescents. 

The SANE together with the Victim Advocate in a secure location with the equipment and supplies needed, are able to  provide the patient the confidential,  compassionate, timely exam in a quiet, comforting environment. Although this is only the beginning of a long road of healing for the victim, the SANE strives to ease the fear and anxiety in the initial medical and physical exam phase of this process to help give control back to the patient. 

I am proud to be a Forensic nurse; a SANE-A. 

Judy Bednar, RN, MSN, SANE-A

In 1996, the Board of County Commissioners agreed that a portion of the jails’ proceeds needed to be allocated to recovery services for crime survivors in the community and decided to allocate the funding from payphones in the jail to create a support agency. Commissioner Mary Johnson helped lead the charge for victims’ rights and the need for community services. By 1999 the Victim Service Center had opened its doors in the heart of downtown Orlando and was ready to help victims on their journey to healing.

In 2001, the Victim Service Center was incorporated as a nonprofit organization and became Victim Service Center of Orange County, Inc. That same year we opened the Sexual Assault Treatment Center (SATC), providing forensic examinations and medical intervention to sexual assault survivors. VSC ultimately became the only certified rape crisis program in Orange County through the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence (FCASV) just four years later in 2005.

2012 was a big year for for VSC; we became the Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc., moved to our current home on Michigan Street, and expanded to Osceola County offering all of our same services out of the Care Center. We also expanded our client offerings to include a full-time in-house therapy program to help clients dive deeper into their healing.

In the summer of 2014, VSC developed partnerships with the local detention centers in Orange and Osceola County to provide inmates with access to VSC’s sexual assault helpline directly. This effort assisted the detention centers in meeting the Prison Rape elimination Act requirements and allowed inmates who have experienced sexual assault while in detention the opportunity to speak with experienced Victim Advocates trained in the area of sexual violence and crisis intervention. In January 2015, VSC was contracted to provide in-person Sexual Trauma Services at the Orange County Detention Center. Services include Education and Awareness groups as well as individual and group Therapy aimed to assist female inmates with addressing emotional issues resulting from sexual trauma.  The program offers the opportunity for the participants to identify and replace dysfunctional coping patterns with appropriate coping skills, which is essential for long-term change and recovery to occur.

In 2016, we proudly expanded with a third office in Longwood to serve Seminole County, further extending our reach and providing services to more victims in need.

In order to keep up with our growth we actively began  fundraising to enhance our opportunities as a center with our first event at the Orlando Science Center in 2007 and later moved to the Mennello Museum of Art where we officially launched our signature event, Cheers to Change. [Some might remember our Executive Director, Lui, hanging signs off the edge of the museum.] Now five years later, Cheers to Change has grown into a highly anticipated 400+ person event, which is in large part due to our loyal and generous supporters who came out to make a difference in the lives of victims in our community.  Thank you for always making joining us at Cheers to Change a priority year after year.

Outreach and prevention has always been part of our work, but in 2015 we officially launched an education training program. We offer training’s on bullying as well as sexual harassment and assault to organizations and businesses. Our anti-bullying youth focused trainings cover the understanding that while it is never okay to bully another individual often times the bully is also being bullied. Our educators discuss how to stand up and be an active bystander for someone in these situations with direct, distract, and delegation options. Recently, we have been having a lot of conversation around our healthy relationship trainings, which can be adapted for any age where the conversation revolves around boundaries, trust, and consent.

With such a strong seventeen year history you might ask what could be next for VSC? While we have grown as an organization, there is still so much work to be done to help victims and spread the message of prevention. Nationally, according to RAINN, every 98 seconds another individual experiences sexual assault, and out of those, two out of three will go unreported. It is our responsibility as an organization, and as a community to help bring healing to those individuals by letting them know it is safe to seek help. With your help we can continue to bring healing to those who need it most.

PTSD in recent years has been most associated with military combat veterans who can experience the disorder at an approximate rate of 18%, but with sexual violence victims this percentage is much higher. According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) 94% of women who are raped experience symptoms of PTSD during the two weeks following the rape, and 30% of women report symptoms of PTSD 9 months after the rape.

All survivors suffering from PTSD will react differently, some possible signs to look for are generally categorized as:

1. re-experiencing: the feeling of reliving the event through flashbacks of the trauma, persistent thoughts, and stressful dreams;
2. avoidance: altering(possibly subconsciously) your routine or behavior to avoid or eliminate situations associated with the trauma;
3. hyperarousal: can include irritability, panic, being hyper alert to the possibility of danger, or a sense of panic or edginess.

According to PTSD United, an approximate 8% of Americans, 24.4 million people, today have PTSD. What can we as a community do to help someone who is suffering from symptoms of PTSD? We can continue to have open conversation about the importance of seeking help for mental health conditions.

As the supporter of a loved one with PTSD we can help maintain a sense of normalcy and calm. Express our support through belief and validation of their feelings without putting pressure on the survivor to talk about their experiences. Maintaining a calm composure when they are experiencing bouts of anxiety or anger, and remaining committed to the relationship to help them rebuild trust in their daily routine.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of PTSD from sexual assault, reach out to Victim Service Center through our 24/7 Crisis Helpline (407) 500 HEAL. You can also reach the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) or through their online chat.

Written by: Orialis, VSC Crisis Counselor

Many victims are in an intimate relationship with their abuser. Sexual assault and domestic violence exist within the scope of oppression. It is how a perpetrator abuses power and control over a victim. A perpetrator can use a variety of violent and non-violent methods to take away a victim’s agency. These may include: violence, intimidation, emotional abuse, controlling money, making the victim feel like they are “crazy”, and sexual assault. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (FCADV) reports that about 15-25% of women are sexually assaulted by an intimate partner. Sexual violence is another way of controlling and taking away a person’s agency. Although some domestic violence victims have outward signs of abuse, many suffer abuse in other ways.

Sometimes the wounds of domestic and sexual violence are invisible. Victims of intimate partner violence are at a high risk for depression and anxiety. Ninety-four percent of women who are raped experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during the two weeks following the rape, and one third contemplate suicide.

One particularly dangerous aspect of domestic violence is the isolation that results from the victimization. As a way to control the victim, an abuser may not let the victim remain in contact with their friends or family. In some cases, the victim doesn’t even realize they have been isolated.

In my experience as a crisis counselor, many of my clients have stated that they didn’t seek help sooner because they were scared. Imagine that the person that is supposed to love and care for you is also the person hurting you the most. It can be a huge feat to trust others following this type of betrayal. When a victim fears that they will not be believed or if they are isolated from resources, they may be less likely to seek support. Many of my clients have been dealing with this silently for years before feeling safe enough to ask for help.

Oftentimes, our society does not believe that an individual can be a victim of sexual violence by their spouse or partner. As long as we continue this narrative and do not acknowledge the sexual violence between partners, we dismiss a huge portion of survivors. The link between sexual violence and domestic violence in undeniable.

For survivors, you are worthy.  You are worth of understanding, empathy, and kindness. At the Victim Service Center, we are here to believe you and to help you. We want to walk alongside you through your journey. To make an appointment, please call 407-254-9415. If you need to speak with our crisis counselor, please call 407-500-HEAL.

Written by: Erin, VSC’s SANE Coordinator

I joined the VSC team as a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) a little over a year ago. My first examination was for a 12 year old girl with autism who was being sexually abused by her father. I remember feeling such sadness for this child and seeing fear in her eyes.

As a SANE, after a sexual assault occurs, it is my job to provide medical and forensic evidence collection and provide compassionate care to the survivors we serve. The moments following the exam always impact me. I see the fear fade slightly from their face, they hug me, and tell me how thankful they are that I’ve been able to make the process just a little easier.

Without fail, after each exam, I wonder if the critical evidence I’ve collected will ever result in justice. While I am responsible for the evidence collection in the rape kit, after the survivor leaves my office, I rarely know the results from the evidence. I often wonder if I gathered any usable DNA and whether or not I’ve made an impact from a legal standpoint.

As a SANE, I am sometimes called in to court to testify as an expert witness. I was recently called to testify from the examination that took place a year ago for the 12 year old girl. The defense attorney, as expected, attempted to put doubt in the jury during cross examination. While I was intimidated by the atmosphere, I kept a calm tone in my voice and kept reminding myself I was there for that fearful little girl. I kept my focus on her. When I left the courtroom that day, I was unsure what the jury would decide but hopeful that justice would prevail.

Several days later, I received a call from the district attorney who was prosecuting the case. He let me know that the swabs collected from the rape kit had resulted in her father’s DNA. He then went on to let me know the jury decided on a guilty conviction and he would be sentenced to life in prison. This monster will be locked away and never able to hurt her again.

While sometimes my job can be challenging and even discouraging, this is a reminder of the incredible privilege and responsibility I’m given through this work. I will continue to fight for those who don’t have a voice and can’t defend themselves. It is my hope that this beautiful little girl can try to regain her childhood and find peace in her life as she continues on her healing journey.