SEXUAL ABUSE
Sexual abuse can have far-reaching physical, mental, and spiritual effects on a person.
We offer help for those who have experienced sexual abuse and information for those who want to learn more about how to prevent abuse or support survivors. Call our Sexual Abuse Support Team at 616-259-0130 or visit our Education & Resources page to learn more.
How to Recognize Sexual Abuse
Because of confusing messages from our culture, some survivors are unsure if they’ve been sexually abused. Read the questions below. All of these behaviors are examples of sexual abuse. If you have answered “yes” to any of these questions, please contact us for confidential help.
1. Has someone groped or touched you inappropriately?
2. Has someone sent explicit photos of you to others or posted them online?
3. Have you ever been coerced into having sex in return for food, medicine, personal belongings, etc.?
4. Have you felt coerced or obligated to have sex for any reason?
5. Have you learned that someone had sexual contact with you while you were unconscious, intoxicated, or unable to consent?
6. Have you been forced to continue sexual contact after clearly saying “no”?
7. Have you been forced into sexual contact without your willing consent
(even if you didn’t explicitly say “no”)?
8. Has a partner forced you to have sex with someone else to settle a debt?
9. Have you been forced to have sexual contact in front of other people when you didn’t want to?