Being sexually assaulted can happen to anyone whether you are young or old, gay or straight. It may have been a night out with friends that ended badly, a past abusive relationship that you are still struggling to come to terms with or abuse that happened when you were a child. If this has happened to you it can feel overwhelming and you may need some support.

Sexual assault occurs when non-consensual sexual acts take place. You have the right to choose who you are going to have sex with and what you will consent to do sexually within that relationship. Unfortunately these boundaries are not always respected by offenders who have more power over those who are not able or willing to give their consent. If you have been subjected to sexual abuse it can have a significant impact on both your physical and mental well-being.

After a sexual assault you may experience a range of feelings such as anger, guilt, denial, sadness, anxiety, shame, stress, depression, etc. Talking to a counsellor about your experiences and the resulting feelings can increase your ability to heal. Student Service counsellors can provide you with confidential counselling services to address the impact of these events on your life.

If you have experienced sexual abuse there are also a number of other people and organisations who can assist you.