Helplines in Antigua and Barbuda.

Hotlines are available in Antigua and Barbuda for the victims of sexual abuse, assault and harassment. It's free and confidential.

Sexual abuse is when one person forces another person into sexual behavior, without that person's consent. It is a type of sexual violence, which is any sexual activity without consent. This includes sexual assault (such as unwanted touching or rape) and sexual harassment (unwelcome or offensive 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 1 hotlines in Antigua and Barbuda who support the victims of sexual violence. Consider getting some support if you recognize any of the following:

Examples of sexual violence:

• 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)
• Catcalls and whistles that make you feel uncomfortable or objectified
• Sexual abuse or assault from someone in your family (incest)
• Being kissed or touched without your consent or being made, by coercion or force, to touch or kiss someone
• Being exposed to a violent, hurtful sexual act without your permission
• Being forced or coerced to have sex without protection from sexually transmitted diseases
• Being spoken to in a sexual way that you find offensive or degrading

Effects of sexual violence:

• Changes (either loss or increase) in your appetite
• Feeling depressed and hopeless, with suicidal thoughts
• Minimizing the abuse as not being as severe as someone else’s
• Avoidance of anything that reminds you of the sexual abuse
• Feeling dirty, damaged, and broken
• Having flashbacks about the sexual abuse
• Feeling edgy and fearful, especially around people who resemble the abuser in any way
• Feeling ashamed for what occurred

Everyone deals with sexual abuse, assault or harassment differently. You may find yourself trying to cope with it in a variety of ways. However, it is perfectly natural that it takes time to heal. It was a traumatic experience, and it might take a lot of support to recover.

If you’re struggling with finding meaning in what occurred to you, talking to hotline staff in Antigua and Barbuda might help you calm your thoughts and emotions and find a path forward. You don’t have to be alone on your journey toward recovery.

For free and confidential support with sexual assault, abuse and harassment, consider contacting a hotline in Antigua and Barbuda today.