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The long-lasting impact of sexual harassment

On Behalf of | Nov 3, 2016 | Sexual Harassment |

The effects of sexual harassment are far more than just an uncomfortable work situation in Minnesota. According to Live Science, sexual harassment has the capability of damaging the health of the target of the harassment. With the number of people experiencing sexual harassment at work at 45 percent of men and 70 percent of women, it has the potential of creating a significant problem.

There are physical effects of sexual harassment that could lead to other health problems. The anxiety and stress a person encounters might cause sleep disturbances due to nightmares or rehashing the experience. It can also lead to aches and pains, especially neck pain. There is a 1.6 times higher chance of a woman with neck pain also having a history of sexual harassment or unwelcome sexual attention. Studies have also found that there might be a correlation between higher blood pressure and sexual harassment, perhaps due to it triggering a stress response.

There are also significant psychological effects of sexual harassment. It is common for those experiencing sexual harassment to end up avoiding situations and reliving the scenario, which might lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder. Chronic depression is another common mental disorder victims of sexual harassment experience. The depression might even linger years after the harassment has ended. Some people might also have suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

According to The Guardian, the damage to a person’s confidence might also affect his or her work performance and ability to succeed in the workplace. Any form of sexual harassment might also lead to changes to a person’s self-confidence or alter behavior patterns. An individual might choose to dress differently or remain distant from groups of people. The person might also live in a constant state of fear due to not feeling safe.

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