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What are the possible long-term effects of child sexual abuse? If child sexual abuse is not effectively treated, long-term symptoms may last into adulthood. These may include: PTSD and/or anxiety Depression and thoughts of suicide Sexual anxiety and disorders Poor body image and low self-esteem The use of unhealthy behaviors, such as alcohol abuse, drug abuse, self-mutilation, or bingeing and purging, to help mask painful emotions related to the abuse If you were abused as a child, and suffer from any of these symptoms, it may help you to seek help from a mental health professional who has expertise in working with people who have been sexually abused.
