Helplines in Otago, New Zealand.

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

Sexual abuse is the use of coercion, force, or unequal positions to make you engage in any form of unwanted sexual activity. Anyone in Otago, New Zealand – 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.

There are many people throughout the world who struggle to overcome the aftermath of sexual violence. If you are one of them, getting the right kind of help can make all the difference. In Otago, New Zealand there are 1 hotlines you can contact for support with sexual abuse, assault or harassment. Reach out if you have experienced any of the following:

Examples of sexual violence:

• Being used sexually in a way that is humiliating
• Being spoken to in a sexual way that you find offensive or degrading
• 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 exposed to a violent, hurtful sexual act without your permission
• Being kissed or touched without your consent or being made, by coercion or force, to touch or kiss someone
• Sexual photos or videos being posted online without your consent
• Being coerced, threatened or forced to perform any sort of sexual activity
• Being filmed or photographed nude or in a sexually explicit way without your permission

Effects of sexual violence:

• A decline in your physical and mental health
• Not being able to fall or stay asleep
• Feeling unsafe and scared that it would happen again
• Minimizing the abuse as not being as severe as someone else’s
• Feeling depressed and hopeless, with suicidal thoughts
• Bursts of fear, anxiety, and panic
• Avoidance of anything that reminds you of the sexual abuse
• Having flashbacks about the sexual abuse

Sexual violence could provoke many ways of coping, some more and some less healthy. You may go through many different feelings, responses, and stages of recovery until you fully heal.

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

If you are victim of sexual abuse, assault or harassment, consider contacting a helpline in Otago, New Zealand for free, confidential help.