Rape or sexual assault is possibly one of the most harrowing experiences an individual can ever go through. But our societal structure is such that the taboo associated with incidents of sexual assault results in a stifling of the dialogue surrounding the emotional turmoil that a victim has to endure.

Nina Burrowes, a psychologist with expertise in the effects of sexual assault and abuse, has broken down what life after sexual assault looks like.

These fantastic illustrations have been done by Nina Burrowes, Jade Sarson, and Katie Green, and have been sourced from Burrowes’ book, The Courage to be me , an illustrated story about courage, compassion and hope after rape or sexual abuse.

This article has been published with special permission from Nina Burrowes .