Sexual abuse is a form sexual violence where a person uses power or coercion to force you into unwanted sexual activity. You can be a victim of sexual abuse if you are a woman, man or child. Other forms of sexual violence are sexual assault, such as rape, and sexual harassment, which is sexual behaviour toward you that is unwelcome or offensive.

If you’ve experienced sexual abuse, assault or harassment, you might be experiencing intense rage and fear, or you may feel numb. There are 6 hotlines in Wales 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:

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 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.

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

If you feel like you might need support with your experience of sexual violence, try reaching out to a hotline in Wales. It's free and confidential.