At approximately two months after the rape, what happens to stress levels?

• A. They begin to rise again.
• B. They remain the same.
• C. They begin to lower.
• D. They escalate dramatically.

Answer: (C)

The main pattern here is that acute stress after a traumatic event tends to subside over time as the immediate shock fades and the person begins to cope with what happened. Around two months after the rape, most survivors experience a decrease in stress levels as routines are reestablished, sleep improves, and support helps regulate reactions emotionally and physiologically. This downward trend reflects the natural recovery process, though some distress can persist and may need ongoing support or treatment.

Rising again, remaining exactly the same, or escalating dramatically would imply a relapse, constant stagnation, or a worsening condition, which isn’t the typical trajectory at this early recovery stage.