April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. First, I like to say that I am a victim of sexual assault. I use "am" because I'm still dealing with it. I am currently in a better place mentally than I was back when it happened. I'm not the most articulate but I'd like to share my experience and offer support for victims of sexual assault.
1. Consent can be removed at any time. You don't owe anyone sex.
2. If you've been sexually assaulted, reach out for support whether it be medical and/or mental support.
3. Processing your experience and healing takes time. At first, you may experience conflicting feelings of embarrassment, anger, desperation, and even guilt. Just know it's not your fault.
4. Coming to terms with the fact that you've been sexually assaulted is one of the hardest things. Doing it alone is even harder. I highly recommend talking to a professional. I reached out to a LGBTQ+ organization and not only did they provide medical and mental assistance, but they also did it with extreme discretion and understanding.
As we know, many users on this are victims of online sexual abuse. Online sexual abuse is just as traumatic as in-person abuse.. Prevention is key, so I think the implementation of mods was definitely a step towards the right direction. Most of us basically grew up on this site so I think we owe it to the younger users to keep this.
Resources:
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): RAINN operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline where their volunteers offer support 24/7 to survivors and their loved ones. Whether you’re looking for support, advice, or a referral, you can contact RAINN at 800-656-HOPE or chat online with a trained support specialist.
Crisis Text Line https://www.crisistextline.org/ You can text 741-741 24/7 from any cell phone in the United States to be anonymously connected to a trained crisis counselor. They also have anonymous Facebook messenger and Kik options if you do not have access to a cell phone.
One in Six http://1in6.org An organization for male-identified survivors of sexual assault. Provides anonymous individual and group counseling 24/7 through online chat functions
National Domestic Violence Hotline http://www.thehotline.org Provides 24/7 anonymous crisis and counseling support over the phone, and anonymous online chat crisis and counseling support from 7am until 2am Central Time
Anti-Violence Project https://avp.org/ Provides 24/7 anonymous phone based crisis and counseling for LGBTQ identified victims of assault and violence, including sexual assault and violence. Based in New York but can refer nationwide
Rape Crisis Network Europe https://www.rcne.com/ Provides online resources and live support for anyone living in Europe
Please feel free to comment on anything or ask any questions.
Comments
<3 ilysm. I hope people who've experienced similar things can read this!
Wow. I’m so sorry for you but I’m so so glad that you’ve decided to help others the best you can even tho it’s difficult. This is a really brave post and I hope this helps your recovery ❤️❤️❤️
