Are you experiencing sexual abuse, assault or harassment? Contact a free hotline in Ida-Virumaa, Estonia for confidential support
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’re struggling with sexual abuse, assault or harassment, there are 2 hotlines in Ida-Virumaa, Estonia 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:
Feeling dirty, damaged, and broken
Changes (either loss or increase) in your appetite
Not being able to fall or stay asleep
Feeling ashamed for what occurred
Feeling unsafe and scared that it would happen again
Having nightmares about the sexual abuse you experienced
Avoidance of anything that reminds you of the sexual abuse
A decline in your physical and mental health
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.
Coping with the trauma of sexual violence can be even harder if you are trying to do it on your own. There is no right or wrong way to recover from the abuse. However, having someone to talk to in Ida-Virumaa, Estonia can make the process easier.
If you are victim of sexual abuse, assault or harassment, consider contacting a helpline in Ida-Virumaa, Estonia for free, confidential help.