Rape Trauma Syndrome

Rape Trauma Syndrome, or RTS, is a label used to identify a spectrum of symptoms that a survivor of sexual assault or harassment may experience. While the symptoms may vary, they are all normal reactions to the trauma that has been experienced. The survivor may feel the effects of RTS immediately after the assault, or even weeks or months later.

Each person's reaction to emotional trauma is unique, always valid, and should be respected.

Rape Crisis Services offers free confidential counseling to help survivors and their significant others.

• Flashbacks -- Reliving the moment of the assault
• Developing fears, usually related to some aspect of the assault
• Depression
• Nightmares
• Feelings of vulnerability, isolation
• Low self-esteem, self-blame
• Unable to feel safe
• Crying for "no reason"
• Problems with memory
• Difficulty with intimacy
• Eating disorders
• Drug or alcohol abuse
• Anxiety attacks
• Risk taking behaviors

Rape Crisis Services Office
310 West Church Street Suite 103
Champaign, IL 61820
Phone: (217) 355-5214
Fax: (217) 355-5270
24-Hour Hotline: (217) 355-5203
rcsprogram@awomansfund.org