Alcohol Abuse and Sexual Assault
Sexual assault can take place in a number of different instances and can happen to many different people. Sexual assault however, is far more likely to take place when alcohol abuse is involved. Alcohol reduces a person’s inhibitions, making things such as sexual assault seem acceptable. Even those who normally would not force sex on a woman or man may do so when under the influence. When this happens, treatment for alcoholism is often sought out by the perpetrator, typically due to guilt and remorse.
Women are most commonly victims of sexual assault, although men have been known to be sexually assaulted as well. Many victims of sexual assault are also intoxicated at the time of the attack. Intoxication in the victim may prevent them from stopping their attacker and avoiding risky situations. In order to prevent sexual assault due to alcohol abuse, alcohol rehab should be sought after. This type of treatment can be located at any number of treatment for alcoholism centers.
Sexual assault can have devastating effects of its victims. Eating disorders and other negative coping methods often arise out of such an instance. In serious cases, eating disorder treatment at an eating disorder residential center is necessary for recovery to take place.
Who are the Victims of Sexual Assault?
Sexual abuse can happen to anyone. Those who have been drugged or who are also consuming alcohol may be more susceptible however. Victims of this type of abuse include:
- Stranger
- Boyfriend or girlfriend
- Friends
- Child
- Spouse
- Co-worker
The perpetrator of sexual assault will often regret their actions after the situation has taken place. In such a case, the perpetrator may seek out alcohol rehab at an alcohol rehabilitation center.
Problems that may Arise from Alcohol Abuse
Negative incidents related to sexual assault and alcohol addiction include:
- Sexual harassment
- Rape of a stranger
- Molestation
- Abuse of family members
- Acquaintance rape
- STD development
- Attempted rape
Each of these problems is more likely to occur when alcohol abuse is involved. In cases of acquaintance rape (which may include date rape), both the victim and perpetrator are usually under the influence of alcohol. The rape of an acquaintance is perhaps the most common form of rape, rape by a stranger is least likely to take place.
When a victim of sexual abuse is under the influence they are more likely to engage in risky behavior and may have trouble protecting themselves when sexual acts are forced upon them. If risky sex or sexual abuse takes place, there is a much higher chance of developing a sexually transmitted disease (STD). In addition to alcohol use, date-rape drugs such as rohypnol and gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) are sometimes used to facilitate rape. If you or your loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol, consider seeking help from a drug and alcohol rehab center.
Ways to Avoid Sexual Assault
No one can entirely prevent sexual assault from occurring, but there are several ways to decrease the likelihood of such events. Remember the following when attempting to avoid situations in which sexual assault takes place:
- Most cases of rape occur late at night. Avoid going out late at night, especially with people you aren’t familiar with.
- Date-rape drugs may be used to commit sexual assault. These drugs can easily be slipped into unattended drinks. Watch as the server mixes your drink and never leave your drink in an accessible spot alone.
- Many people who are sexually assaulted know the perpetrator (whether they are a relative, co-worker, acquaintance, or boyfriend/girlfriend). Always be on your guard, don’t assume someone won’t take advantage of you in a vulnerable state.
- Alcohol abuse is a common factor in sexual assault. Don’t drink so much that you cannot control yourself. If you must drink in excess, do so in the company of trusted friends.
- Most cases of sexual assault occur when the victim is alone. If you are going to be out at night and/or walking in an idle neighborhood, bring someone with you.