April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and we’re sharing educational resources and personal essays from our community related to this important topic. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment, assault, or abuse of any kind, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Here’s a list of sexual assault resources and hotlines to know about.
*Editor’s note: We are constantly updating our information and resources. Please let us know if you have any additional resources that would be helpful to add to this list!
- National Sexual Assault Hotline
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The National Sexual Assault Hotline is a safe, confidential service that offers support from a trained staff member. Calling the hotline also gives you access to local resources, education, and referrals for providers who can assist with your next steps toward healing and recovery. To receive support, call 800-656-HOPE (4673) or access 24/7 help online here.
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)
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NSVRC provides research and tools to advocates working on the frontlines to end sexual harassment, assault, and abuse with the understanding that ending sexual violence also means ending racism, sexism, and all forms of oppression.
- NO MORE
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NO MORE’s mission is to unite and strengthen a diverse, global community to help end domestic violence, sexual assault, and abuse. They provide education, toolkits, free resources, and media initiatives to support diverse communities and engage others in addressing domestic violence and sexual assault. They also have an impressive global directory so that people all over the world can find the support they need and deserve.
- Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN)
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RAINN is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. They operate the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE) and carry out programs to prevent sexual violence, support survivors, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. Their main pillars are to help survivors, educate the public, improve public policy, and provide consulting and training.
- WomensLaw.org
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WomensLaw.org provides state-specific legal information and resources for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. They provide plain-language explanations of topics like protection orders, custody, and more. And despite its name, WomensLaw.org provides information that is relevant for people of all gender identities, not just women.
- Take Back The Night Foundation
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Take Back The Night is the earliest worldwide movement to stand against sexual violence, reaching millions of people each year and sparking hundreds of events on college campuses. The Take Back the Night Foundation seeks to end sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and abuse and create safe communities.
- Crisis Text Line
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Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7, high-quality text-based mental health support and crisis intervention by empowering a community of trained volunteers to support people in their moments of need. To receive support right away, text HOME to 741-741 from anywhere in the U.S. or Canada. For the UK, text SHOUT to 85258, or for Ireland, text HOME to 50808.
During Sexual Assault Awareness Month and beyond, it’s important to know where to turn if you or someone you know experiences a harmful situation. Check out the above resources for support, and in case of emergency, be sure to dial 911. If you’re a student, we also encourage you to familiarize yourself with the resources available at your school, college, or university. Finally, if you are in need of a therapist, visit PsychologyToday.com or TWLOHA.com/find-help to find support in your area.