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.

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 Oregon, United States there are 4 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
Sexual abuse or assault from someone in your family (incest)
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
Sexual photos or videos being posted online without your consent
Being exposed to a violent, hurtful sexual act without your permission
Being spoken to in a sexual way that you find offensive or degrading
Catcalls and whistles that make you feel uncomfortable or objectified
An organ or an object being put into your vagina (rape), or anus or mouth (sodomy), without your consent

Effects of sexual violence:

Feeling dirty, damaged, and broken
Changes (either loss or increase) in your appetite
Not being able to fall or stay asleep
Feeling ashamed for what occurred
Feeling unsafe and scared that it would happen again
Having nightmares about the sexual abuse you experienced
Avoidance of anything that reminds you of the sexual abuse
A decline in your physical and mental health

If you have experienced sexual violence, your emotions and thoughts are likely to change all the time in an attempt to make sense of what happened to you. It can be confusing trying to figure it out all on your own.

When you’re on your path to surviving sexual violence and its aftermath, it helps to know that there are people who can relate. People in Oregon, United States who went through similar experiences could make your recovery easier and quicker.

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