#LibraryNews - Loras College Library at Loras College

The statistics are appauling.* Over half of women and almost a third men in the United States will experience sexual violence during their lifetimes. A third of female and about a quarter of male suvivors experience assult for the first time between the ages of 11 and 17. Racial minorities, the disabled, and transgender, genderqueer, and nonconforming people experience a higher burden of sexual violence than others. Native Americans are at the greatest risk of sexual violence.

The trauma of sexual violence has wide-ranging consequences for survivors. They may involve physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. The consequences also may become chronic, with survivors suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and experiencing recurring reproductive, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and sexual health issues. Sexual violence survivors also can turn to unhealthy behaviors in response to their trauma. They are more likely to smoke, abuse alcohol and drugs, and engage in risky sexual activity. Likewise, they may have trouble maintaining personal relationships and struggle in establishing new ones. Additionally, sexual violence has a significant financial impact on survivors with recent estimates putting the lifetime financial cost at $122,461 per survivor.

There are numerous resources available to assist survivors as well as advocates. Locally, the Riverview Center offers free and confidential services. They can provide advocacy, helping survivors with legal processes, medical appointments, and social service support. They offer therapy and counseling too. They also have resources for those wanting to support survivors, including education and trainings as well as volunteer opportunities. On the Loras campus, Counseling Center Services are another great resource. Here is contact information for those and other options:

Loras College Counseling Center Services: 563-588-7085
Riverview Center Hotline: 1-888-557-0310
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (directs the caller to a local rape crisis center)
Information for LGBTQ+ survivors: LGBTQ Survivors of Sexual Violence (RAINN)
Information about sexual assault and disabilities: Sexual Abuse of People with Disabilities (RAINN)

One of the most important ways to care for survivors of sexual assault is to be as supportive and non-judgemental as possible. Here are some specific phrases RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline recommends:

“I believe you. It took a lot of courage to tell me about this.”
“It’s not your fault. You didn’t do anything to deserve this.”
“You are not alone. I care about you and am here to listen or help in any way I can.”
“I’m sorry this happened. This shouldn’t have happened to you.”

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to honor survivors, raise awareness, and stand in solidarity with those affected by sexual assault. It is an opportunity to focus on encouraging bystander intervention and helping to build a culture of consent. It is a time to learn more about the issue, share your voice, and work towards a society free of sexual violence. Take time this month to educate yourself. Check out the books and other resources in our display on the main floor of the Library near the elevator. Also, show your support by participating in the Love Letter to Survivors Project. Write words of encouragement and support on a paper heart that will then be posted on the wall near the display. Only by coming together may we fully address the issue of sexual violence.

*Statistics are primarily from the CDC.

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