Say Something
Sexual Assault Awareness
April is sexual assault and abuse awareness month.
By: Maia Price
April is sexual assault and abuse awareness month. Sexual assault/abuse can come in many different forms; many can also stem from relationships. If you or someone you know is being sexually abused, some steps can be taken to remove yourself or them from these types of situations.
The sexual assault crisis line is online 24/7: +1(800)-656-4673.
Removing the stigma and “shame” for coming forward about your experiences will increase the likelihood of people coming forward about their experiences. Additionally, men can also be sexually abused, so take what they say seriously too.
Many young adults get into relationships a little too quickly without taking time to really understand the person they have decided to spend much of their time with. Some exhibit red flag behavior. You may be wondering, “What is red flag behavior?”
Red flag behavior is when your partner exhibits warning signs that can indicate an unhealthy relationship or manipulative behavior that can cause a relationship to be toxic.
Red flags are often difficult to recognize, which is why they can be so dangerous. Red flags can appear in friends, family, colleagues, or partners as well. These “can be signs of narcissism, aggression, victimization, or even abusive behavior” (www.betterup.com). Becoming aware of these types of relations will help you avoid getting into other toxic relationships. Often, toxic relationships can take over your life to the point where you may feel you can’t leave. Some people may accept red flags as “normal” or “part of the deal” rather than dangerous warnings. “They then become vulnerable to emotional, psychological, and sometimes even physical harm” (www.betterup.com).
“When you encounter relationship red flags, it’s a good time to pause and reflect on the dynamic you really share with that person”
Here are some common red flags to look out for. For more information, visit Red Flag Warning: What to look out for in your relationships:
Overly controlling behavior/manipulation
Someone who tries to control your movements, decisions, or beliefs. They do this because they are more concerned about what they want rather than what is best for the victim.
Lack of trust/gaslighting
Someone who never trusts what you say and makes you feel small because of it. Someone who constantly makes you doubt yourself and manipulate you; this is a form of emotional abuse. Trust is fundamental for any relationship and will become unstable if not there. Although we sometimes doubt, that doesn’t stop us from trusting others.
Physical, emotional, or mental abuse
Substance abuse … and more.
If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual assault, call the Sexual Abuse Hotline, available 24/7 at +1(800)-656-4673, for a free, confidential conversation with a trained counselor at any time. If there is immediate danger of harm, call 911.
Sources: