The Impact of Trauma on Adult Sexual Assault Survivors

The Government of Canada has some in depth information about the impact of trauma on adult sexual assault survivors.

Neurobiological Effects of Trauma

↑ Increase

  • Size of amygdala (increased fearfulness)
  • Nervous system (fight/flight/freeze)
  • Startles easily
  • Stress hormones
  • Inflammation
  • Blood pressure and heart rate
  • Weight gain
  • Trembling/shaking
  • Takes less stress to trigger a stress response

↓ Decrease

  • Learning and memory
  • Smaller, fewer connections, less integration
  • Cortex/brain volume (smaller brain)
  • Short-term memory
  • Verbal recall
  • Nervous system (calming system)
  • Ability to form social connections
  • Ability to regulate mood and affect

General Enquiries

Self Referral Form

When we call you, the call will come from a private phone number

External Agency Referral Form

Therapeutic goals, recent trigger/s, support or information required
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
The National Redress Scheme provides support to people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse.
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
Please fill this question to the best of your ability based on the information you have already received from the client
Based on the information you have received, are you required to make a mandatory report in relation to Section 229BC of the Queensland Criminal Code (Child Sexual Offences Reform) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2020? More Information visit CASV website - Information- Mandatory Reporting ( https://casv.org.au/home/mandatory-reporting-229bc/ )
If you've selected Yes or No, feel free to provide more information or put "N/A" to pass.
Suicide, self-harm, substance use, domestic violence, mental health issues, ongoing harm or risk of harm