April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Sexual Assault Awareness Month is a campaign to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it. The campaign theme for 2019 is I Ask – a theme that champions the message that asking for consent is a healthy, normal, and necessary part of everyday interactions. Sexual Assault and Mental Health Sexual assault is not only a physical trauma, but a mental one that can have both short- and long-term effects on a victim’s mental health. According to RAINN (the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization), victims of sexual assault are at an increased risk for developing: Depression Substance use disorders Eating disorders Anxiety Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Many survivors experience flashbacks of their assault, and feelings of shame, isolation, shock, and guilt. People who have been sexually assaulted are more likely to use drugs. Events Join the movement by attending Sexual Assault Awareness Events in Philadelphia: 4/11/2019: Teal Day Press Conference 4/14/2019: Benefit Concert 4/26/2019: Hands Around City Hall Consent When someone gives consent, they give their permission for something to happen, or they agree to do something. Consent means they know what they’re agreeing to. It’s not just about asking for consent, but also about listening and accepting the answer. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center offers resources on consent: Asking for Consent Asking [...]