April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This month offers opportunities for education and empathy, looking to eventually mitigate the global prevalence of sexual violence.
Sexual assault isn’t an easy subject to discuss. Though these conversations are working to help the over one half of all women and nearly a third of all men who have experienced some form of sexual violence in their lifetime.
All experiences are valid and every story will warrant different reactions for the survivor. Understanding these emotions can help build a society that fights to end this violence in our everyday lives.
Whether you’re a survivor, know someone who is a survivor, focusing on prevention or are exhibiting a mix of all three, the following resources can help with the healing process for all of those who have experienced sexual violence.
- R-Voice Center at Penn State
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The Relationship Violence Outreach, Intervention, and Community Education (R-Voice) Center at Penn State offers free and entirely confidential services to benefit those who may be suffering from relationship or sexual violence.
The center’s staff delivers educational sessions, counseling opportunities and support for those who seek it. Additionally, for Sexual Assault Awareness Month, R-Voice is hosting a myriad of events to provide outlets for survivors.
The list of events range from lecture discussions to art gallery displays to ZUMBA. These events create safe spaces to share experiences, seek help and begin the healing process for all those affected.
- National Sexual Assault Hotline
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If away from State College and away from local or campus resources, do not hesitate to call the National Sexual Assault Hotline if you’re in need of assistance.
The hotline was created by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN). They offer 24/7 support in many forms, such as a number to call for connecting with a support specialist, an online chatbot or WhatsApp communication with a support specialist.
RAINN’s staff can help to answer any questions, find avenues to reduce anxiety and assist with any action that may need to be taken. Their services are entirely confidential and they will not ask for any personal information.
The hotline can be an incredibly effective way to get immediate help for yourself or someone you know with the option to remain entirely anonymous.
- Local Shelters
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State College has many local shelters that can be a helpful resource for education while also providing somewhere safe for those who may be suffering to find solace.
Centre Safe and Out of the Cold are examples of some shelters in the State College area that provide different forms of support. These shelters can provide advice and action for those who may need to escape a dangerous situation.
If you’re not currently in State College, shelters are often scattered throughout each state and can be found with a quick Google search. Giving them a call could be helpful to speak to someone about you or a loved one’s situation so that the healing process can begin.
- CAPS at Penn State
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Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at Penn State offers free counseling for Penn State students who may need it. They offer their services as six sessions twice throughout your time at the university.
The CAPS staff can help to understand any emotions that may come from experiencing or witnessing sexual violence, listening to your story and offering healthy coping mechanisms.
CAPS can also connect you to local outside sources and recommend a plan of action moving forward so that you or your loved one is safe and remaining safe.
Having resources and ways to advocate for those who are struggling can be useful when experiencing or knowing someone who is experiencing a traumatic event like sexual violence.
If you or someone you know is struggling from the effects of sexual assault, do not be afraid to seek help however you see fit. There are people everywhere who want to help and stop the spread of sexual violence.
You are not alone!