Immediately after the attack, you'll probably feel confused and extremely afraid. A few hours later, these feelings will give way to depression, exhaustion, and restlessness. In about two weeks, you'll begin to feel better emotionally; but three weeks later, your symptoms may worsen again.
You may experience severe bouts of fear and depression and have problems with self-esteem, social adjustment, and sexual dysfunction for up to 18 months after the assault. These symptoms will probably last at least 6 years. Women who were raped as children may repress the memory, only to have it resurface full-force years later.
It's important to talk with a professional about your assault and your reactions to it. A psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor specially trained to work with rape victims can help you understand that you really are the victim and are not to blame for what happened. Vent your anger, fear, desperation, even guilt—and discuss how you feel about the attack at the present time. In that way you can learn how to deal with your emotions and get on with your life.
From: Yahoo Health
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