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 Israel who support the victims of sexual violence. Consider getting some support if you recognize 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:

Feeling guilty about the sexual abuse
Not being able to fall or stay asleep
Losing trust in people in general
Having nightmares about the sexual abuse you experienced
Minimizing the abuse as not being as severe as someone else’s
Feeling edgy and fearful, especially around people who resemble the abuser in any way
Feeling dirty, damaged, and broken
Feeling ashamed for what occurred

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.

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 Israel can make the process easier.

For free and confidential support with sexual assault, abuse and harassment, consider contacting a hotline in Israel today.