Sexual Violence… There is Hope

Every 98 seconds in the United States, someone is sexually assaulted. Assault can include actions such as rape, molestation, or something as simple as groping. While every 98 seconds an American is sexually assaulted, at least 321,000 of these people are over 12 years old. Age does not define whether or not somebody can get assaulted. In all actuality, 54% of people who experience sexual violence and assault are between the ages of 18 and 34, but people between the ages of 12 and 34 have the highest risk of being assaulted.

Aside from age, gender and sexual identity has a lot to do with assault and sexual violence statistics. At least 1 in 6 women in the United States has been raped, and women between the ages 16 to 19 are four times more likely to get raped than the general population. Male college students (ages 18 to 24) are also five times more likely to get assaulted or raped than another male their age. And 21 percent of trans* and gender non-conforming college students have been raped or assaulted.

Sexual violence can have many negative long term effects, including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), alcohol abuse, drug abuse, STD’s, and even suicide.

If you or someone you know are experiencing anything related to a sexual assault there are hotlines across the country you can reach out to. The Sexual Assault Hotline is a 24/7/365 hotline, and is always offering help to its callers. Just call 800.656.HOPE (4673) to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area.

Sexual violence and assault are horrible things, and we can try and stop it by educating ourselves and our peers about what sexual violence and assault is and how you can get help. Help make the 98 seconds non-existent by educating yourself and those around you.