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 3 hotlines in Leeds, England who support the victims of sexual violence. Consider getting some support if you recognize any of the following:

Examples of sexual violence:

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
Being used sexually while you were very drunk, drugged, unconscious, or unable to say NO
Sexual photos or videos being posted online without your consent
Being forced or coerced to have sex without protection from sexually transmitted diseases
Sexual abuse or assault from someone in your family (incest)
Being coerced, threatened or forced to perform any sort of sexual activity
Being kissed or touched without your consent or being made, by coercion or force, to touch or kiss someone

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 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.

Surviving and recovering from sexual violence can be a very lonely process. Especially if you struggle with all the different thoughts and emotions that you’re having a hard time controlling. This is why reaching out to helpline staff in Leeds, England could help you feel less isolated.

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