Five Facts Around Sexual Assault Awareness Month
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month - a time to recognize survivors and show support through solidarity and providing resources. Sexual assault is life-altering and damaging, but survivors aren’t alone. Here are five facts and resources meant to bring awareness and assistance during Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
- Sexual Violence Often Starts Early
A vast majority of female sexual assault survivors reported the incident occurred when they were under 25, and half when they were a minor. When sexual assault happens to children, it can have heavy emotional effects and is often linked to negative health behaviors like alcohol and substance abuse and sexual risk behaviors.
- Sexual Violence Is Costly in Multiple Ways
On top of the traumatic physical and mental effects sexual violence brings upon a survivor, it can bring financial crises as well. The lifetime cost of sexual assault is $122,461, as that includes medical care, lost productivity, and criminal justice costs.
- Some groups are affected at a higher rate
Sexual violence can affect anyone, but it is important to highlight specific trends and demographics that are particularly susceptible to abuse. Minority groups often experience sexual abuse at a higher rate, as more than two in five non-Hispanic and American Indian women were assaulted in their lifetime.
- Wear Teal to Show Your Support
Teal is the official color of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Wearing teal throughout April — and even beyond — shows your support for sexual assault survivors and lets them know they aren’t alone.
- Support Is Always Available
There are various crisis hotlines for survivors to call or text, such as the National Hotline, Raper, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), or the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual & Domestic Violence. The Department of Economic Secuirty (DES) also works with over two dozen domestic violence organizations, so survivors seeking to get out of an abusive or dangerous situation can find quick support.