No one expects to be betrayed by someone they trust. But when that betrayal comes into the hands of a clergy member, it can be especially damaging to a person’s mental health. All a victim need is awareness and support from their loved ones. In this article, we’ll explore how clergy sex abuse can damage mental health and what victims can do to heal.
The Long-Term Effects of Clergy Sex Abuse
The long-term effects of clergy sex abuse can be devastating. Survivors often suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They may have trouble trusting people and may struggle with relationships. In addition, they are at a higher risk of self-harm and developing addiction issues, such as alcoholism and other substance abuse. They may feel isolated, depressed, and even suicidal.
According to Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), an estimated 1 in 9 girls and 1 in 53 boys are sexually abused under the age of 18. If you or someone you love has been affected by clergy sex abuse, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional. Later it’s best to seek legal help to seek financial compensation. The effects of clergy sex abuse can be devastating, but there is hope for healing.
How Does Clergy Sex Abuse Affect Mental Health?
Sexual abuse, no matter the perpetrator, can lead to a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal thoughts. Victims of clergy sex abuse may also develop an unhealthy view of spirituality and trust in others. The experience of clergy sex abuse can leave victims feeling worthless, helpless, and vulnerable.
Clergy sex abuse victims may turn to substance abuse in an attempt to cope with the pain they’re experiencing. Substance abuse can also lead to problems with the law and future depression.
What Are The Symptoms of Clergy Sex Abuse?
While every victim and his or her experience is unique, there are some common signs to look out for. If you recognize any of these signs of the mental health impact of clergy sex abuse in someone you love, speak with an attorney who can help.
- Depression, anxiety, and PTSD
- Guilt and shame
- Nightmares or flashbacks
- Self-harm behaviors like cutting or substance abuse
- Sexual problems such as promiscuity, difficulty in maintaining relationships, or sexual identity confusion
Unique Challenges Faced By Survivors
Clergy sex abuse is unique because the victim trusts the perpetrator and often feels there is no way to get help. The idea of reporting the abuse to law enforcement or other authorities may be unthinkable, as it would likely lead to a loss of faith and community support. Many survivors of clergy abuse suffer in silence for years and experience unique trauma symptoms.
All of these symptoms can be debilitating, and many survivors are unable to function. Some survivors find themselves facing the same abusive conditions in their everyday life as those they experienced in their childhood.
Impact On The Wider Community
Even in small, rural communities, the impact of clergy sex abuse can be devastating. The entire community is affected by the trauma and victims often feel that they have nowhere to turn for help. The effects of clergy sex abuse are similar to other forms of child maltreatment in the way that they can cause harm to the individual and community. The clergy abuse crisis has caused a loss of faith in the Church and has led to the resignation and dismissal of numerous priests, nuns and bishops.
The crisis has also forced many religious orders to close their doors. The financial cost to the community is also high because of the need to provide counseling services, pay for legal fees and cover other associated costs.
Seeking Legal Help To Move On
Victims of sexual abuse by a member of the clergy need to understand that they are not at fault for what happened to them. This is true even if they were adults when the abuse happened. Victims and their families can seek help by contacting a personal injury attorney. A lawyer can help victims understand their legal options and the steps they need to take to move on with their lives.
Conclusion
When someone is sexually abused by a member of the clergy, the damage goes far beyond the physical. The mental health effects of clergy sex abuse can be long-lasting and severe. Victims may struggle with trust issues, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The betrayal of trust that comes with this type of abuse can be especially damaging to mental health. Clergy sex abuse survivors often need extensive therapy and support to heal the psychological wounds caused by this horrific experience.
