One in five college women is sexually assaulted. This is a daunting statistic, and it’s important to know that you’re not alone if you’re one of five. There are many resources both on and off campus that want to help you.
1. U Got This!
U Got This! replaced the Tonight program on Aug. 1, 2017 and is required for all first-year and transfer students. Developed by Catharsis Productions, this program was designed to be more engaging than prior programs. In addition to this new online program, students are also required to participate in an in-person workshop when they arrive on campus.
2. UHS Violence Prevention and Survivor Services
The UHS Violence Prevention and Survivor Services works to prevent violence before it happens. It runs both first-year and voluntary workshops, such as WIse or Green Dot, upon request. They also offer support to victims and survivors of sexual assault, harassment, domestic violence and stalking.
Located off campus, the Rape Crisis Center is another outlet through which survivors of sexual violence (e.g. assault, incest, harassment and exploitation) can find support. The Rape Crisis Center offers programs based on survivor support and advocacy, education and outreach, as well as self-defense programs. The on-campus satellite office is located in East Campus Mall.
4. Domestic Abuse Intervention Services
Domestic Abuse Intervention Services (DAIS) focuses on the empowerment and support of survivors of domestic violence; it also works to create a violence-free community for Dane County residents. DAIS offers a helpline, emergency shelter, a children’s program and support groups, among many other programs. DAIS also offers both volunteer opportunities and internships for those who want to get more involved in their mission.
UHS’ Mental Health Services is another one of many ways where students can seek on-campus support. UHS offers services for individual and couples/partners, stress management and psychiatry. These programs, along with their 24/7 crisis services, are available to students at no cost.
UHS also provides on-campus medical support. At the Women’s Health Clinic, they offer clinical information about the risk of pregnancy, STIs and physical injuries, as well as offering assistance with reporting, finding support and academic accommodations (UHS does not perform forensic examinations; those are completed at Meriter Hospital).
Here are three places to which you can report sexual violence and sexual harassment:
1. Campus Title IX Coordinator
For reports of sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating/domestic violence, stalking and discrimination based on sex.
For reports of sexual assault, sexual harassment, dating/domestic violence and stalking.
3. UWPD and Madison Police Department
For reports of sexual assault, domestic/dating violence and stalking.
If you’ve experienced something like sexual assault, reaching out to others for support can be a healing and empowering experience. You can start with talking to trusted friends, family members and other loved ones; and when you’re ready, consider some of these options.
Cover Photo from The Guardian