sexual assault awareness month 62d153ce1fa94

Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an annual designation observed in April to raise awareness about sexual violence around the world and to educate communities on how to prevent it. The term “sexual assault” is a large umbrella and includes all the following: Rape, Molestation, Unwanted sexual contact, sexual harassment, incest, child sexual abuse, sexual violence, even with an intimate partner, sexual exploitation, human trafficking, and voyeurism.

During this time the Maverick County Hospital District urges anyone who is or knows of someone who is a victim of Sexual Assault to please report it. We must show support for survivors, speak out, and do our part to end the widespread problem.

Did you know that every 98 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted? And yet, only 5 out of every 1,000 perpetrators will end up in prison. The majority of sexual assaults happen at or near the victim’s home, often by someone they know, and/or trust. Sexual assaults and violence is a serious criminal offense. In the United States, 1 in 5 women and 1 in 67 men have been raped in their lifetime. The City of Eagle Pass and Maverick County are not immune to sexual assaults in the community. Each year law enforcement officials investigate numerous sexual assault charges. Although some incidents are reported, police officials say that many are not because the victim usually knows their aggressor, social stigma of being a sexual assault victim, and the lack of resources available to handle and advise the victims within the community. Rape, is the most under-reported crime; 63% of sexual assaults are not reported.

Sexual violence also includes unwanted sexual contact and non-contact unwanted sexual experiences (such as verbal sexual harassment). Sexual violence can be committed by anyone: a current or former intimate partner; a family member; a person in position of power or trust; a friend or acquaintance; a stranger, or someone known only by sight.

Sexual violence impacts health in many ways and can lead to long-term physical, psychological, psychiatric, and mental health problems. Victims may experience chronic pain, headaches, depression, suicidal ideation, loss of self-esteem, psychological, psychiatric, trauma, and sexually transmitted diseases. They are often fearful or anxious and may have problems trusting others. Anger and stress can lead to eating disorders, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

The good news is that prevention is possible, and it’s happening more and more. By ending the stigma and continuing support and awareness programs, we are able to lower the amount of sexual assaults that occur every year.

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual violence, you may contact the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7. Contact your local emergency services at 9-1-1.

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