TRIGGER WARNING: SEXUAL VIOLENCE

It’s important to keep a supportive mindset in these trying times,  especially this month. October is nationally recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Furthermore, St. Lawrence University takes this time to recognize both domestic and sexual assault survivors. During “purple week” (October 20th-26th), SLU Advocates have organized a series of events intended to spread awareness and prevention of sexual and domestic assault as well as provide support and strength to those who have been victims. 

The Advocates website and 24 hour anonymous chat is valuable to anyone who has been or is currently a victim of sexual or domestic assault, stalking, and is even helpful for peers of survivors.  In addition, help is provided through multiple resources, which can be found on their page, including a flowchart regarding the options one has after they have been through sexual assault.

 If you have been through a traumatic event such as these, physical and emotional self care can help you cope with both short and long term effects. For example, focusing on how much sleep you’re getting, the  food you’re eating, personal hygiene, and taking the time to exercise are some physical aspects of our lives we often take for granted or forget to attend to. But taking care of yourself is especially important post-trauma. 

In addition, striving for a healthy mind should be emphasized. Some ways to care for the mind include: meditation and yoga, journaling, finding inspirational quotes, participating in activities or hobbies you enjoy, spending time with loved ones, and talking about your trauma with friends, family, and professionals. 

Being supportive of someone who is a victim can prove to be challenging as knowing what to say isn’t always easy. Letting them know you’re listening and that you’re there for them is vital for their recovery. It should also be reminded to survivors that what happened to them is not their fault and that their feelings and reactions are normal. Some other ways to be helpful include: giving victims their time alone if they would like, reminding them of specific positive aspects of their life, involving them in activities they love, suggesting professional places to get help, checking in on them, and  observing changes in their physical and mental health habits. 

Some specific phrases RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization, suggest vocalizing are: “I believe you.”, “It’s not your fault.”, “I’m sorry that this happened.”, and “You are not alone.” These phrases may seem simple, but they go a long way in helping victims heal. 

According to RAINN, an American is sexually assaulted every 73 seconds. By preventing sexual assault through ways such as giving a safe ride home, diverting someone that looks uncomfortable in a situation, or stepping in when something doesn’t seem right, YOU can help to prevent sexual and domestic assault. However, when in a situation in which this has already happened, practicing self care and supporting victims can make all the difference in a life.