Sexual Assault
Overview
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, it’s not your fault, it’s not their fault.
You are not alone. Every 98 seconds, another person experiences sexual assault. Sexual assault includes acts of sexual violence, relationship violence and stalking. If you are not sure you have experienced sexual assault, the fact that you are asking yourself the question means you could have. As a college student in particular, it is important to know your choices for disclosing sexual assault if you choose to do so, and the resources available to you for help on your campus and in your local community.
Sexual assault is not only a women’s issue, people across the gender spectrum are victims of sexual assault, and the effects of assault may spill over into school, work, family and social relationships. A sexual assault survivor may feel guilt, shame, fear, and anger that develop into anxiety, depression and thoughts of suicide. Just like physical injuries, these emotional injuries can be treated and a person can feel better over time. Reaching out for help is the first step and here is a place to do that.
Video Cartoon- What Is Sexual Assault?
Captioned Version Links to an external site.
The information in these modules is not intended to replace the services and advice from a medical or mental health professional.
Learn More
Select topics below to learn more about support and resources.
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Learn more about sexual assault prevention.
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Read more about what consent looks like Links to an external site..
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College campuses can give you a sense of security-learn more about staying safe on campus Links to an external site..
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Everyone has a role to play in preventing sexual assault. Learn more about steps you can take to prevent sexual assault Links to an external site..
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When someone tells you that they were sexually assaulted, the best way to respond is simply to Start by Believing. Survivors are often afraid that others won’t believe them, or that they will blame them for what happened, so it is important to simply listen and offer support and whatever types of assistance they want. Let them take the lead on what they need from you.
On Cuesta Campus:
Melissa Richerson, Title IX Coordinator Links to an external site. individuals with questions or concerns regarding sexual discrimination, including sexual harassment, may contact Melissa Richerson at (805) 546-3129.Cuesta Health Services, Mental Health Therapy Links to an external site.
Our MFT (marriage and family therapist) and MFTIS (marriage and family therapist interns) are available for free and confidential therapy here at Cuesta. They are also able to connect you with resources in the community.Community Resources:
RISE Links to an external site. serves both victims of intimate partner violence and sexual assault/abuse and their loved ones, RISE provides comprehensive programs, services and resources to the community.Stand strong Links to an external site. is committed to providing confidential services for survivors of domestic violence and child abuse in our community. English+Spanish+LGBTQI
Where is the Closest Help to Me?
Although this course has helpful information, it can't replace the face-to-face time we need sometimes. Need local help?
Click here to find mental health resources (Links to an external site.)
Click here to find general health resources
Student 101 & Cuesta Campus Well (Links to an external site.) is one of the ways that we are working to enhance Cuesta College’s culture of wellness.
Locate a health and mental health center near you
Explore More
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Knowledge is POWER, take the Sexual Assault Quiz and see what you may already know.
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Sexual Assault Victims Speaking To Victims, You Are Not Alone!
Captioned Version Links to an external site. -
Department of Defense Safe Helpline Links to an external site. 877-995-5247 (for active military service, transitioning or veterans)
Captioned Version Links to an external site.
Sexual Assault Support & Resources:
Spread the Word
Know someone who needs help? Follow the link on the Kognito logo to learn more about how you can help others.
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