OneEighty marks April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month

OneEighty, a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to help people change direction in Wayne and Holmes counties, is dedicated to the prevention and intervention of domestic violence and sexual assault through education, community outreach and victim advocacy, offering comprehensive and compassionate services for survivors.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month in the United States, marked by important milestones such as the inception of rape crisis centers, the passage of the Violence Against Women Act and national observance of this awareness month. These efforts call attention to the widespread sexual violence that impacts every community; raise public awareness about abuse, harassment and assault; and educate citizens about how to get involved in prevention efforts.

Another American is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds, and every nine minutes that victim is a child.

Approximately 66% of rape victims are younger than 18, with approximately 34% under age 12.

Over 53% of women and over 29% of men reported experiencing contact sexual violence in their lifetime. And two-thirds of them never tell anyone.

Rape and sexual assault affect women, children and men of all racial, cultural and economic backgrounds.

Eight out of 10 (80%) sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim.

Emotional and physical trauma resulting from sexual violence is often severe and long-lasting; victims can have such adverse consequences as post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, major depression, homelessness, eating disorders and suicide, causing survivors to suffer from emotional scars long after the physical wounds have healed.

Support can begin by believing individuals who have the courage to disclose their assault. Such support can help survivors in their healing journey.

Individuals in need of assistance related to sexual violence may call the OneEighty 24-hour hotline at 1-800-686-1122.