Being raped or sexually assaulted can be a very traumatic experience but the most important thing to remember is that it was NOT your fault. You did not ask to be raped or sexually assaulted and you did not do or say anything to make you become a victim of sexual violence.
Studies show that survivors of sexual and gender-based violence may experience the psychological effects of the abuse throughout their lifetimes. Whether the incident occurred recently or happened twenty years ago, possible conditions that may result include anxiety, depression, trust issues, feelings and thoughts of shame and guilt, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), fluctuations in mood, periods of intense anger, dissociation with feelings, self-destructive behaviours, and more.
Witnesses of violence, children of survivors and other family members are often referred to as secondary victims of the violence and can experience psychological stress as a result.
Penetration of the mouth, anus or vagina with an object or the penis without consent.
Forced sexual intercourse with consent (gained by: fear, threat of harm to person or someone else, impersonation, unlawful detention or false representation of the nature of the intercourse) or without consent.
An act of physical, psychological and emotional violation in the form of a sexual act without consent. It can involve forcing or manipulating someone to witness a sexual act.
Definition of Consent
Agreeing by choice, and having the freedom and capacity to make that choice.
Therefore, if a person has consumed alcohol, has been drugged, is under the age of 18, has a limited mental capacity, is forced, imprisoned, coerced, terrified, asleep, changed their mind or in a coma they are not capable of being able to give consent (this list is not exhaustive).
Myths are claims that too often put the blame for an assault onto the victim and away from the perpetrator.
Consider contacting a hotline in Trinidad and Tobago right away for free, private help with sexual abuse, assault and harassment
