Helplines in Västernorrland, Sweden.

Hotlines are available in Västernorrland, Sweden 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 Västernorrland, Sweden – 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’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 Västernorrland, Sweden who support the victims of sexual violence. Consider getting some support if you recognize any of the following:

Examples of sexual violence:

• Sexual photos or videos being posted online without your consent
• Being exposed to a violent, hurtful sexual act without your permission
• Being used sexually in a way that is humiliating
• An organ or an object being put into your vagina (rape), or anus or mouth (sodomy), without your consent
• Being spoken to in a sexual way that you find offensive or degrading
• Repeated unwanted sexual attention or advances, including in your workplace or by your employer
• Catcalls and whistles that make you feel uncomfortable or objectified
• Being kissed or touched without your consent or being made, by coercion or force, to touch or kiss someone

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

Everyone responds to experiencing sexual violence differently. It’s perfectly normal to go through very different emotions in a single day. Still, trying to cope with this on your own can be extremely difficult.

If you’re struggling with finding meaning in what occurred to you, talking to hotline staff in Västernorrland, Sweden 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.

If you are ready to talk to someone about your experience of sexual abuse, assault or harassment, you can contact a hotline in Västernorrland, Sweden for free and confidential support.