Obuasi SHTS Sex scandal: Let’s sit up as a nation, failing these girls sends the wrong signal - Kpebu

In the recent case of alleged sexual abuse at Obuasi Senior High Technical School, discussions in Ghanaian media have centered on the medical, legal and social impacts, often neglecting the psychological trauma inflicted on the victims. This article aims to delve into the psychological effects these girls may face, both in the short and long term, outline potential interventions, and explore how these psychological traumas could be quantified in monetary terms.

Immediately following a sexual assault, victims often experience shock, disbelief, numbness, fear, and anger. In the short term, they may develop Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), which can manifest as intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and dissociation. While some may experience a decline in symptoms within a month, others may continue to struggle with emotional and psychological well-being, potentially developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Those affected are at a higher risk of developing major depression, characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities, changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue, and even suicidal thoughts.

Anxiety is another common issue among survivors, with possible diagnoses including generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, or social anxiety, which can interfere with various aspects of their lives. Some may also develop specific phobias related to the assault, such as fear of being alone or in specific environments. Dissociation, a coping mechanism, may manifest as detachment from one’s body, emotions, or surroundings.

In severe cases, survivors may develop dissociative disorders like dissociative amnesia, characterized by an inability to recall important information about the traumatic event.

Some survivors might turn to alcohol and drugs as a means of coping with emotional pain, leading to substance abuse and addiction, further complicating their recovery process. Survivors may grapple with shame, guilt, and self-blame, which can erode their self-worth and lead to long-lasting self-esteem issues, affecting their ability to form and maintain relationships, and questioning their judgment and worthiness of love or respect.

Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, nightmares, or night sweats, are also common among survivors, potentially persisting for months or even years and significantly impacting their quality of life. Sexual assault may also trigger disordered eating behaviors, with some survivors experiencing changes in appetite, weight fluctuations, or developing eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder.

Furthermore, sexual assault can result in long-lasting physical health consequences, including chronic pain, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and a weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.

For immediate assistance, Counseling and Clinical Psychologists can help normalize and reduce symptoms in the short term. However, for some individuals, symptoms may persist into adulthood and affect their daily functioning. Social support from parents and caregivers, devoid of criticism, is crucial for building confidence and trust, enabling survivors to discuss the incident thoroughly.

Clinical and Counseling psychologists can conduct scheduled meetings to assess, diagnose, and provide psychological interventions to alleviate the trauma’s effects. If found culpable in a court of law, the abuser may be required to pay monetary compensation for the long-lasting trauma experienced by the survivors. Samuel Yawson is a final-year PhD Clinical Sport Psychology student at the University of Ghana, Legon, and a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, available at +233202443144 or samueljyawson@gmail.com.