Helplines in Canada.

Have you experienced sexual abuse, assault or harassment? Reach out to a sexual abuse hotline in Canada today for private, confidential support

Sexual abuse is the use of coercion, force, or unequal positions to make you engage in any form of unwanted sexual activity. Anyone in Canada – women, men or children – can be a victim of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse is a form of sexual violence, which includes sexual assault, such as rape or unwanted touching, and sexual harassment, which is unwelcome, intimidating or offensive sexual behavior.

If you’re struggling with sexual abuse, assault or harassment, there are 8 hotlines in Canada you can contact. Everyone’s experience is unique, as well as the path towards recovery. However, hotline volunteers could help you for free if you are experiencing or have experienced:

Examples of sexual violence:

• Being used sexually in a way that is humiliating
• Sexual abuse or assault from someone in your family (incest)
• 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
• Sexual photos or videos being posted online without your consent
• Being exposed to a violent, hurtful sexual act without your permission
• Being spoken to in a sexual way that you find offensive or degrading
• Catcalls and whistles that make you feel uncomfortable or objectified
• An organ or an object being put into your vagina (rape), or anus or mouth (sodomy), without your consent

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

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 Canada who will give their best to understand you. Speaking freely about what you experienced could help you heal faster.

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