Regardless of whether you're a woman, man or child in Wellington, New Zealand, if someone has used coercion, power or force to make you engage in unwanted sexual activity, you were a victim of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse is a form of sexual violence, which is any sexual activity without consent. Other forms of sexual violence are sexual assault, such as rape and unwanted touching, and sexual harassment, which is unwelcome sexual behavior.

If you’ve experienced sexual abuse, assault or harassment, you might be experiencing intense rage and fear, or you may feel numb. There are 4 hotlines in Wellington, New Zealand who support the victims of sexual violence. Consider getting some support if you recognize any of the following:

Examples of sexual violence:

Being kissed or touched without your consent or being made, by coercion or force, to touch or kiss someone
Someone making degrading or offensive comments about your body or sexuality, or using sexual terms and language in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable
Being spoken to in a sexual way that you find offensive or degrading
Being used sexually in a way that is humiliating
Sexual photos or videos being posted online without your consent
Being exposed to a violent, hurtful sexual act without your permission
An organ or an object being put into your vagina (rape), or anus or mouth (sodomy), without your consent
Rape by more than one person (gang rape) or rape by the same person over a period of time (serial rape)

Effects of sexual violence:

Feeling ashamed for what occurred
Having nightmares about the sexual abuse you experienced
An urge to use alcohol, drugs, or gamble excessively
Feeling depressed and hopeless, with suicidal thoughts
Feeling as if everyone could see what happened to you
Feeling dirty, damaged, and broken
Changes (either loss or increase) in your appetite
Feeling guilty about the sexual abuse

If you have experienced sexual violence, your emotions and thoughts are likely to change all the time in an attempt to make sense of what happened to you. It can be confusing trying to figure it out all on your own.

After surviving sexual violence, you might believe no one will understand your feelings. However, there are people in Wellington, New Zealand who will give their best to understand you. Speaking freely about what you experienced could help you heal faster.

Consider contacting a hotline in Wellington, New Zealand right away for free, private help with sexual abuse, assault and harassment