When and Where?

The Denim Run takes place on April 12th 2026 at 8 AM PST. The starting line for the main run/walk will be located on the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California. Survivors.org will be on site and present at the Wellness Festival taking place on the pier after the run. Please visit the website above for parking and rideshare details.

What if I’m not in L.A.?

You can participate in the Denim Run 2026 from anywhere. Register your team and host your own walk/race in your community or with your friends. This is the perfect way to raise support for survivors in your community this Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Participants who join us from other parts of the globe can also make a direct donation on our page, rather than needing to buy a ticket.

Why Denim?

Denim has been a world-wide symbol against sexual assault since the 90’s. In Italy, 1999, a judge overturned a sexual assault conviction. His reasoning? He claimed that because the survivor was wearing tight denim jeans, she “must” have assisted in their removal. Public outrage at this grave injustice, victim-blaming, and the judge’s clear in ability to understand consent, sparked people to wear denim in solidarity with the survivor.

Now, every April, we observe denim day to let people know that we stand against victim-blaming and alongside survivors.

Create a Team, Make a Statement.

While you do not need to create a team and can register as an individual participant, a team can be a great way to get more people involved in the movement. By creating a team as a business, school, family, or friend group, you make your stance on sexual violence clear. Now more than ever, people are wondering who can put their words into action. As a team, you can raise money for Survivors.org. The team fundraising for Survivors.org with the top donations will receive a prize!

Get Your Denim On!

Check out our shop and pick up a Survivors.org denim hat to wear for the Denim Run and/or Denim Day! All profits go towards Survivors.org programs and operations.

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This project creates a safe, supportive sanctuary for trauma survivors to express their suppressed emotions, unspoken feelings, and bottled-up experiences. We aim to provide a platform for survivors of violence and trauma to find catharsis through creative writing and art. Our curated anthology will feature poetry and stories from survivors, amplifying their voices and promoting empathy. By sharing the stories of trauma survivors, we aim to cultivate a compassionate community that values togetherness, resilience, and healing.

• All writing must be original
• Survivors from every walk of life can submit poetry pieces, short stories, or short prose
• Your work can be about anything, but we are focusing on your creative expression as a survivor, emotions and catharsis
• Word limit: approximately 500 words
• Maximum of three submissions per participant
• Even though it won’t be possible to include everything submitted, we will try our best to include as many of your submissions as possible
• There will be a review process

Please submit your writing below. If you have any questions, please email Submissions@Survivors.org

Submissions will be curated into a Survivor Anthology to raise funds for Survivors.org. By submitting, you consent to having your submission published in this anthology. All submissions are subject to review by Survivors.org staff, and all writing must be original. You will receive information from Survivors.org about whether or not we choose your submission for publication. We thank everyone for their submissions!

The post Submit To Survivors.org’s Poetry Passion Project appeared first on Survivors.org.

1. Fill out the form linked below with your information and product and shade selections.
2. Requests made by the 20th of each month are shipped out on the 30th of every month. 
3. Requests made after the 20th will be shipped out on the 30th of the following month.
4. Share to help us raise donations to cover shipping costs.

Please Read: We cannot guarantee that any specific product will be in your care package, however, we will do our best to fill the care package with the shades and products you request. Please note that product and shade availability are based on donated goods and we cannot guarantee the availability of any particular product and/or shade. Currently, we are only able to ship care packages to survivors in the 48 continental United States. In order to ensure that all survivors can access kits, we are currently only fulfilling requests for one care package per survivor every six months. By filling out this form, you agree to receive emails from Survivors.org. You may opt out at any time.

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Consent and sexual education are not topics that belong exclusively in high school health classes. They are foundational life skills that must be nurtured and reinforced at every stage of development. According to experts and leading advocacy organizations, comprehensive and age-appropriate sexual education is crucial in promoting bodily autonomy, respect, and the prevention of child sexual abuse (CSA). This article highlights work from leading researchers and expert guidelines to show how early and ongoing education around consent can empower children and youth to navigate their bodies, boundaries, and relationships safely and confidently.

Sex Education as a Lifelong, Socially Transformative Process

Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), as promoted by leading organizations such as SIECUS, ACOG, and the American Academy of Pediatrics, are foundational resources to aid in supporting the social, emotional, and physical development of children and adolescents. These conversations foster personal agency, empathy, and empowerment while reinforcing bodily integrity and consent.

Sexual education is more than the basics of reproduction or sexually transmitted disease (STI) prevention. SIECUS, the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States emphasizes comprehensive sex education (CSE) to help dismantle systems of power that perpetuate inequality and harm. By integrating consent and healthy relationships into CSE from an early age, we are promoting a more respectful, empathetic, and safe society. Additionally, CSE can normalize the full spectrum of sexual orientation and gender identity, helping to reduce stigma against the LGBTQIA+ community. This includes challenging binary gender roles and heteronormative assumptions. Instead, curating a more inclusive and accepting environment to foster understanding of diverse identities and expressions. When young adolescents are taught that there is not one way to express yourself or who you can love, it promotes an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, feel safe to express themselves and reduce shame and stigma. 

It is essential to address the myth that teaching children about LGBTQIA+ identities will “turn them gay” or influence their gender identity. Being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or any other identity on the sexual/gender identity spectrum is not a choice, it is biologically driven and a part of human diversity. Educating children and adolescents about this does not create or convert identities. Instead, it creates safer, more supportive environments where all children, including those who are LGBTQIA+, can see themselves valued and respected in society. Silencing these conversations does not protect children. Instead, it discriminates and marginalizes those who are at higher risk for bullying, isolation, and mental health struggles. 

Children learn social norms, personal safety, and communication habits early on, and these foundational years are ideal for beginning conversations about identity, bodily autonomy, and consent. This early start doesn’t mean introducing explicit sexual information, as those who oppose CSE may argue, but rather supporting children in understanding boundaries, respect for others, and how to express and recognize comfort and discomfort.

Consent at Every Age

Harvard’s Usable Knowledge resource has outlined how conversations around consent should evolve with a child’s cognitive and emotional development. This resource provides suggestions for how consent education can be introduced through different stages of childhood:

Early Childhood/Preschool Age (Ages 0–5): Naming, Choice, Body Autonomy, and Self Care

The focus should be on naming body parts accurately (including genitals), teaching that some parts of the body are private, differences in gender/private body parts, hygiene and toileting, and reinforcing the right to say “no” to unwanted touch, even from family members. These practices establish a baseline understanding of bodily autonomy and empower children to speak up if someone violates their boundaries. 

Tools & Resources: Child Rescue Coalition

Early Elementary (Ages 5–8): Expanding Boundaries and Emotional Literacy

Continue reinforcing consent as an ongoing process by teaching that consent must be asked for and can be taken away at any time. Begin discussing different types of relationships (e.g., friendships, romantic relationships, familial relationships) and how to navigate feelings like embarrassment, confusion, peer pressure, and trust. Continue reinforcing consent as ongoing and reversible, discuss respect for their peers (e.g., asking before hugging, touching, or playing), encourage open communication and validate questions without shame. These practices provide social-emotional tools to help children understand and express their feelings about touch, space, and trust.

Tools & Resources: Edutopia- Teaching Consent to Elementary Students

Upper Elementary (Ages 9–11): Nuanced Discussions and Peer Interactions

At this age, hormonal changes and outside influences like media, internet, and peers intensify sexual curiosity and identity formation. Introducing more complex aspects of consent such as digital safety, peer influence, and privacy are important tools to build self-respect and confidence in navigating complex interpersonal relationships in various spaces. Begin conversations about puberty, sexual feelings, and respectful communication. Deepen conversations on values, respect, and decision making alongside beginning age-appropriate discussions on digital safety and misinformation about sex/sexual relationships. By building confidence in navigating in-person and virtual situations through encouraging self-respect, children learn how to navigate complex interpersonal and technological spaces with confidence. Having an open conversation provides the space for a child to feel comfortable asking questions about sex and empowers them to respect themselves and others.

Children are naturally curious, especially as they begin to experience new emotions and bodily changes. If adults do not create safe, open, and honest spaces for these conversations, children will inevitably seek out answers elsewhere. These answers are often obtained from unreliable or harmful sources such as peers, online forums, or explicit media. Avoiding or delaying these conversations does not protect children; instead, it leaves them vulnerable to misinformation, shame, and risky behaviors. Having open, judgment-free conversations not only helps children feel comfortable asking questions, but also teaches them how to assess the information they receive, understand boundaries, and make respectful, informed choices. Empowering them early with accurate information and lays the foundation for healthier relationships in adolescence and adulthood.

Tools & Resources: Common Sense Media- Supporting Teens and Adolescents in an Increasingly Digital and Uncertain Age

Adolescents (12+): Comprehensive Sexual Health Education

Teens need access to full-spectrum sexual education that includes information on contraception, STI prevention, sexual orientation, gender identity, healthy relationships, and the legal and emotional components of consent. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) agree that access to medically accurate, culturally inclusive sexual education is linked to delayed initiation of sexual activity, increased use of protection, and lower rates of teen pregnancy and sexual violence. It is essential to consider all youth in these conversations, regardless of background, gender identity, or ability. It is essential for all youth to receive inclusive and affirming sexuality education.

Tools & Resources: Oregon Health and Science University Tools for Teaching Sexual Health, Harvard University- Exploring Equity: Gender and Sexuality

Preventing Child Sexual Abuse Through Personal Agency and Education

Teaching consent from a young age is a proven strategy in preventing CSA. When children understand they have agency over their bodies, they can recognize inappropriate behavior, and feel safe speaking to trusted adults, they are less vulnerable to grooming and abuse. The Child Rescue Coalition and research from the University of South Florida highlights how early consent education can act as a protective factor against CSA, especially when supported by parents, caregivers, and educators.

Consent education is not a one-time talk. It is an ongoing dialogue that evolves as children grow. Adults can model respectful behavior, create safe non-judgemental spaces for questions, and provide developmentally appropriate information that empowers children and adolescents. By normalizing these conversations early and throughout development we can set the foundation for a society that values bodily autonomy, mutual respect, and healthy relationships. Consent and sexual education is essential for safety and personal development. By starting conversations early and tailoring conversations to a child’s developmental stage, parents and educators can equip children, adolescents, and young adults with the skills they need to respect and protect themselves and others. 

Sources

1. SIECUS. (2023). Sex Ed is a Vehicle for Social Change. https://siecus.org/sex-ed-is-a-vehicle-for-social-change/
2. Harvard Graduate School of Education. (2018). Consent at Every Age. https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/usable-knowledge/18/12/consent-every-age
3. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Comprehensive Sexuality Education. https://www.acog.org/advocacy/policy-priorities/adolescent-health/comprehensive-sexuality-education
4. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The Importance of Access to Comprehensive Sex Education. https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/adolescent-sexual-health/equitable-access-to-sexual-and-reproductive-health-care-for-all-youth/the-importance-of-access-to-comprehensive-sex-education
5. Stop It Now! (2023). Age-Appropriate Sexual Behavior. https://www.stopitnow.org/ohc-content/age-appropriate-sexual-behavior 
6. Child Rescue Coalition. (2023). Growing Kids and Boundaries: Teaching Consent by Age and Stage. https://childrescuecoalition.org/educations/growing-kids-and-boundaries-teaching-consent-by-age-and-stage 
7. Edutopia. (2022). Teaching Consent to Elementary Students. https://www.edutopia.org/article/teaching-consent-elementary-students/ 
8. Garcia, A., Crosland, K., Reyes, C., Del Vecchio, M., & Pannone, C. (2024). Prevention and Intervention Strategies for the Sexual Abuse and Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children Who Run Away from Foster Care: A Scoping Review. Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 33(6), 736–764. https://doi.org/10.1080/10538712.2024.2363821 
9. Rohrer, L., Johnson, M., Robst, J., Ismajli, F., & James, S. Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention Program Evaluation. http://cfs.cbcs.usf.edu/_docs/publications/Final-Evaluation-Report-CBCAP-20190701.pdf 

The post Practicing Consent and Sexual Education Throughout Development appeared first on Survivors.org.

Victim-survivors of sexual assault may experience psychological trauma that affects thoughts, emotions, identity, relationships, and overall health. While trauma responses vary, common reactions include but are not limited to: ^1-4

• Numbness
• Intrusive thoughts and flashbacks
• Night terrors 
• Difficulty opening up to others 
• Shame, guilt, and self-blame
• Depression 
• Anxiety
• Disordered eating 
• Emotional detachment and dissociation
• Hypervigilance
• Suicidal ideation
• Self-harm

Many victim-survivors struggle with these reactions and question whether their experiences are worthy of support. It’s important to recognize that all responses are valid, and all victim-survivors deserve care and support. 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

A commonly reported mental health diagnosis after sexual assault is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening or deeply distressing event (like sexual assault). Not all survivors develop PTSD. Some may experience Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), Adjustment Disorder, and/or trauma-related anxiety and depression. According to the National Center for PTSD, around 94% of sexual assault victim-survivors experience symptoms of PTSD, with an estimated 30–50% going on to develop chronic PTSD.^3-4 

Symptoms of PTSD can include:

• Re-experiencing the trauma through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts.
• Avoidance of reminders, places, people, or situations associated with the trauma.
• Negative changes in thoughts and mood, including hopelessness, detachment, or distorted blame.
• Heightened arousal
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

For some survivors, including those who may have experienced child sexual assault (CSA), intimate partner violence, and/or repeated traumatic experiences may align with Complex PTSD (C-PTSD). Although C-PTSD is not officially recognized in the DSM-5 it is widely accepted throughout international diagnostic models.⁸ Therapies such as EMDR and trauma-focused CBT are often recommended for victim-survivors with C-PTSD Some symptoms of C-PTSD may overlap with PTSD, but have distinct features of C-PTSD include: 

• Difficulty regulating emotions
• Distorted self perception 
• Trouble with trust and intimacy
• Difficulty forming healthy attachments and problems maintaining healthy boundaries.   
• Chronic feelings of emptiness
• Chronic pain 

Minoritized victim-survivors of sexual assault such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, immigrants, sex workers, and others often experience compounded trauma from systemic oppression, discrimination, and/or lack of access to culturally competent care and support.⁹ These intersecting barriers can worsen trauma and delay or prevent healing. All healthcare providers, including mental health professionals must acknowledge and affirm victim-survivor’s intersecting identities, past experiences, and cultural contexts. Culturally responsive and anti-oppressive therapy is critical to adequate and affirming support. 

The Body-Mind Connection

The effects of trauma are not just psychological, they live in the body. Survivors often experience somatic symptoms like headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, or stomach problems that have no clear medical explanation but are very real.

The body-mind connection refers to the intricate ways our nervous system, hormones, and immune responses interact with trauma:^{6, 7}

• Hyperarousal of the autonomic nervous system can keep the body in a state of fight-or-flight long after the threat is gone.
• Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis can disrupt sleep, appetite, and stress responses.
• Dissociation is a sense of disconnection from one’s body and emotions.
• Somatic flashbacks are when our body re-experiences physical sensations that occurred during a traumatic event.

Somatic-based therapies like sensorimotor psychotherapy, somatic experiencing, and/or trauma-sensitive yoga can help victim-survivors reconnect with their bodies.^{6, 7}

Long-Term Mental Health Effects¹⁰

Victim-survivors may continue to experience challenges that interfere with daily life functioning and relationships for months or years after the trauma. These can include:

• Depression including symptoms of persistent sadness, loss of interest, feelings of worthlessness
• Anxiety Disorders: including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, social anxiety
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) which can sometimes be triggered by a need for control post-trauma
• Eating Disorders: such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating that tends to be linked to body control 
• Self-harm and/or suicidal ideation

Longitudinal studies following sexual assault report that victim-survivors of sexual assault are three times more likely to suffer from major depressive disorder and over six times more likely to attempt suicide than non-survivors.^11-13 However, many survivors are able to heal after trauma. There are many national, local, and virtual resources available to help victim-survivors rebuild and move forward with a fulfilling and joyous life. It’s important to recognize that survivor’s mental health does often suffer after experiencing violence or abuse, but that there is hope beyond those struggles.

Sources

1. Dworkin, E. R., & Weaver, T. L. (2021). The impact of sociocultural contexts on mental health following sexual violence: A conceptual model. Psychology of violence, 11(5), 476. https://dx.doi.org/10.1037/vio0000350 
2. Campbell, R., Dworkin, E., & Cabral, G. (2009). An ecological model of the impact of sexual assault on women’s mental health. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 10(3), 225-246. https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838009334456 
3. Dworkin, E. R., Jaffe, A. E., Bedard-Gilligan, M., & Fitzpatrick, S. (2023). PTSD in the year following sexual assault: A meta-analysis of prospective studies. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 24(2), 497-514. https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838009334456 
4. Brooker, C., & Tocque, K. (2016). Mental health risk factors in sexual assault: What should Sexual Assault Referral Centre staff be aware of?. Journal of forensic and legal medicine, 40, 28-33. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jflm.2016.01.028 
5. Kilpatrick, D. G., Resnick, H. S., Milanak, M. E., Miller, M. W., Keyes, K. M., & Friedman, M. J. (2013). National estimates of exposure to traumatic events and PTSD prevalence using DSM‐IV and DSM‐5 criteria. Journal of traumatic stress, 26(5), 537-547. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.21848 
6. Ulirsch, J. C., Ballina, L. E., Soward, A. C., Rossi, C., Hauda, W., Holbrook, D., & McLean, S. A. (2014). Pain and somatic symptoms are sequelae of sexual assault: results of a prospective longitudinal study. European journal of pain, 18(4), 559-566. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.1532-2149.2013.00395.x 
7. Jacobsen, S. A., Frostholm, L., Buhmann, C. B., Petersen, M. W., Ørnbøl, E., Dantoft, T. M., & Carstensen, T. B. W. (2023). Are sexual assaults related to functional somatic disorders? A cross-sectional study. International journal of environmental research and public health, 20(20), 6947. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20206947 
8. Shatsky, S. M. (2025). Revising and Consolidating the DSM-5 and ICD-11 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders Into a Dimensional Spectrum-Based Disorder: A Literature Review. https://doi.org/10.15760/honors.1643 
9. Scott, C. V., Singh, A. A., & Harris, J. C. (2023). The intersections of lived oppression and resilience: Sexual violence prevention for women of color on college campuses. In Intersections of identity and sexual violence on campus (pp. 119-139). Routledge. 
10. Turgumbayev, M., Shopabayev, B., Dzhansarayeva, R., Izbassova, A., & Beaver, K. (2023). An examination of associations between sexual assault and health problems, depression or suicidal ideation in a large nationally representative cohort of male and female 20-30-year-olds. Criminal behaviour and mental health : CBMH, 33(3), 196–212. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbm.2280
11. Bentivegna, F., & Patalay, P. (2022). The impact of sexual violence in mid-adolescence on mental health: a UK population-based longitudinal study. The lancet. Psychiatry, 9(11), 874–883. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(22)00271-1 
12. Khadr, S., Clarke, V., Wellings, K., Villalta, L., Goddard, A., Welch, J., … & Viner, R. (2018). Mental and sexual health outcomes following sexual assault in adolescents: a prospective cohort study. The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, 2(9), 654-665. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2352-4642(18)30202-5 
13. Li, J., Jin, Y., Xu, S. et al. Anxiety and Depression Symptoms among Youth Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: A Network Analysis. BMC Psychol 11, 278 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-023-01275-3

The post Acute and Long Term Mental Health Needs After Sexual Assault appeared first on Survivors.org.

Abuse is not confined to romantic relationships. It can occur in families, friendships, workplaces, and other interpersonal dynamics. Regardless of the setting, abuse often follows a repetitive and predictable pattern known as the cycle of abuse. Recognizing this cycle is a critical step in identifying unhealthy dynamics and breaking the cycle. 

Understanding The Cycle of Abuse 

Phase 1: Tension building ^1-5

In this stage, stress, anxiety, or dissatisfaction is building. The abuser may become increasingly irritable, critical, or controlling. The target of the abuse often feels like they are “walking on eggshells,” trying to prevent an outburst. They may internalize their inability to control the abuser, feeling shame and blame.

These are signs of tension building across relationship types, for each type of relationship these are examples of common signs. However, these signs are not exclusive to the respective relationship type. 

Signs across relationship types:

• Romantic: Jealousy, silent treatment, emotional withdrawal, isolation from other relationships.
• Familial: Harsh criticisms, manipulation, mood swings.
• Friendship: Passive-aggressive behavior, guilt-tripping, being intentionally uninvited.
• Workplace: Micromanagement, unreasonable expectations, veiled threats.

Phase 2: Incident ^1-5

When the abuse occurs. The form of abuse may be physical, emotional, verbal, psychological, financial, or even digital. The tension is released through some form of harm or control. These are common examples of incidents within relationships. However, these incidents are not exclusive to the respective relationship type. 

Signs across relationship types:

• Romantic: Physical violence, sexual coercion, verbal degradation.
• Familial: Yelling, threats, emotional blackmail, physical violence.
• Friendship: Public humiliation, betrayal, intimidation.
• Workplace: Harassment, verbal abuse, sexual coercion.

Phase 3: Reconciliation ^1-5

After the abuse, the abuser may apologize, show remorse, or make promises to change. They may act loving, generous, or excessively attentive. This phase creates confusion and often gives the victim hope that things will improve. These are examples of types of reconciliation, however, these acts are not exclusive to one particular type of relationship. 

Signs across relationship types: 

• Romantic: Gift giving, apologizing, affectionate, promises of getting help or going to therapy.
• Familial: Denial, rationalization, conditional love.
• Friendship: Excuses, deflection of blame.
• Workplace: Praise and favor.

Phase 4: Calm/Latency Phase ^1-5

During this stage, the relationship may seem stable and can be enjoyable. Both parties may deny or minimize past abuse. However, the underlying power imbalance remains unaddressed, and the cycle often begins again overtime. This can be a longer or shorter period of calm that can vary. 

Why does the cycle persist? ⁶ 

There are many reasons why an individual may choose to stay in an abusive relationship, which includes:

• Trauma bonding: Emotional attachment formed through repeated abuse and reconciliation.
• Love/remembering love: Hope for future changes and remembering the love that they once had. Feeling like you would be abandoning someone who needs you in a difficult time. 
• Fear and intimidation: Threats to safety, financial security, reputation, custody over children and pets, loss of stable housing.  
• Isolation: Abusers often cut off support systems, making it harder to seek help and feel accepting of help. 
• Low self-esteem: Repeated abuse can damage self-worth and reinforce dependence.
• Hope for change: The calm phase aids in the belief that the abuser can or will change.

Abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, sex, age, race, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. It can exist in any type of relationship. By broadening our understanding of how the cycle of abuse operates across various contexts, we can empower individuals to recognize the signs and take steps toward safety and healing.^1-6 

Here are some examples from individuals who broke the cycle of abuse in various relationship types. 

• Jennette McCurdy on familial abuse  

• Debbie Ryan on intimate partner abuse

• Rihanna on physical abuse

• Eggshells: a short film on domestic violence  

If you or someone you know is caught in this cycle, know that support is available and it is possible to break the cycle.

Sources

1. Walker, L. E. (2015). Looking back and looking forward: Psychological and legal interventions for domestic violence. Ethics, Medicine and Public Health, 1(1), 19-32. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jemep.2015.02.002 
2. How to Support Someone Who is Experiencing Domestic Violence | RAINN. (2019). Rainn.org. https://rainn.org/news/how-support-someone-who-experiencing-domestic-violence?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwna6_BhCbARIsALId2Z3g-Dx6_0mkMYxoEjS28nBCyC5sfvjRF6r6I8fTAIqp3G142sGXAkQaAiuDEALw_wcB
3. Holding Space: Three Ways to Support Domestic Violence Survivors. (2024, September 13). The Hotline. https://www.thehotline.org/resources/three-ways-to-support-domestic-violence-survivors/ 
4. What If Someone You Know Is Experiencing Abuse. (n.d.). Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center. https://jeannegeigercrisiscenter.org/get-help/get-help-for-someone-else/
5. Women’s aid. (2024). I’m not sure if my relationship is healthy. Women’s Aid. https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/the-survivors-handbook/im-not-sure-if-my-relationship-is-healthy/
6. Benedini, K.M., Fagan, A.A. A Life-Course Developmental Analysis of the Cycle of Violence. J Dev Life Course Criminology 4, 1–23 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40865-017-0073-6

Support Is Available

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We’re committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

Phone: 1.888.373.7888

Chat: click here to start a chat

Text: Send any message to 988

Website

Domestic Violence Hotline

We are here to serve all those impacted by relationship abuse 24/7 confidentially. Due to high demand, you may experience longer wait times to connect with a live advocate.

Phone: 800-799-7233

Text: “START” to 88788

Online chat: Click here to start chat

Website

The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline

The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and has given assistance to more than 2 million help seekers. Serving the U.S. and Canada, the hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with professional crisis counselors who—through interpreters—provide assistance in over 170 languages. The hotline offers crisis intervention, information, and referrals to thousands of emergency, social service, and support resources. All contacts are confidential.

Phone: 800.422.4453

Text: Text “HELP” to 800.422.4453

Chat: Click here to chat

Website

The post The Cycle of Abuse appeared first on Survivors.org.

Approach for supporting and helping someone in an abusive relationship:

1. Recognize signs of abuse: Understanding signs of abuse can come in many forms and it is important to recognize that these signs are not a checklist or the only signs that can mark an abusive relationship. Abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, or even digital. Some warning signs can include but are not limited to:  

• They are worried about making their partner angry
• They make excuses for their partner’s behavior
• Their partner is possessive and/or jealous 
• They have unexplained marks/injuries 
• They isolate themselves from family and friends
• Their partner puts them down in front of other people 

2. Create a safe space for conversation: When you feel comfortable to have a conversation, do this in a private, safe setting where the individual feels comfortable. Let them guide the conversation. Your goal is not to fix the situation, but to be present and supportive.

3. Listen without judgement: Avoid interrupting, offering advice, or expressing disbelief or dramatic reaction. Survivors often minimize their own experiences, your role is to create a supportive and safe space for a survivor to open up. By listening without judgement survivors can feel understood and less alone. Some ways to be attentive without judgement include: 

• Reflect on what you hear to show you’re engaged: “That sounds incredibly difficult.”
• Ask open-ended questions like: “How have you been feeling about everything?
• Validate their experiences and emotions: “You don’t deserve to be treated this way.”

4. Offer support and resources: Even if you do not have the capacity to fully support a survivor or feel that you need to do more, remember that small gestures like offering to babysit, giving them a ride, or helping find a local resource can have a big impact. Helping doesn’t always mean taking big action. Sometimes, being a safe and reliable friend is enough.

5. Help create a safety plan: Even if they are not ready to leave, you can help by developing a safety plan. This can include:

• Identifying a safe place to go in an emergency.
• Keeping important documents or essentials packed and hidden.
• Knowing which local services or hotlines to contact.

6. Respect their decision: Do not be judgmental or critical of their decision or try to make them feel guilty for their choices. Leaving an abusive relationship is not easy. Survivors often face emotional manipulation, financial dependence, threats, and fear of escalation. It is important to:

• Not place pressure on them to leave before they are ready. 
• Not criticize them for staying or returning. 
• Support their autonomy and remind them that the decision is theirs to make. 

7. Encourage professional help and self care: Support them in accessing professionals who can offer legal, emotional, or medical help. Encourage them to speak with a counselor or a domestic violence advocate. Remind them to prioritize their own well-being and safety while also prioritizing your personal safety and well-being. 

Understanding the Cycle of Abuse

Understanding this pattern can help explain why someone might stay in the relationship and why leaving is not always straightforward especially when children are involved or they have fears of retaliation. It is also important to understand that someone can have loving feelings for their abuser and it is very difficult to separate those feelings of love from their partner’s actions. 

1. Tension building – arguments and emotional stress escalate.
2. Incident – the abusive episode occurs.
3. Reconciliation – the abuser may apologize, blame stress, or promise change.
4. Calm – a period of peace that often creates false hope.
   

The Role of Law Enforcement

While involving law enforcement might seem like the obvious step, it can sometimes escalate the situation, especially when officers are dismissive or lack proper training. In some cases, even if the survivor does not want to press charges, the state may pursue legal action, which takes control away from the survivor. It is further important to keep in mind that different communities have different opinions and experiences regarding law enforcement. It’s essential to prioritize the survivor’s sense of autonomy and only involve authorities when the person is in imminent danger or consents to do so.

Understanding the different forms of abuse that can occur in a relationship: Abuse is not always physical. Being aware of the many ways abuse can manifest will help you respond with greater empathy and awareness:

• Emotional/Psychological Abuse: Gaslighting, threats, isolation.
• Verbal Abuse: Insults, verbal assaults, raising voice.
• Coercive Control: Micromanaging behavior, restricting movement or access to resources.
• Financial Abuse: Controlling money, sabotaging employment.
• Sexual Abuse: Coercion, manipulation, or forced sexual contact.
• Digital Abuse: Monitoring phone or internet use, online harassment, blackmailing or threatening to release intimate images, videos, or private conversations. 
• Honour-Based Abuse & Forced Marriage: Violence or coercion used to protect family ‘honor’.
• Abuse Related to Disability: Withholding care, using someone’s disability to manipulate and control them.

Remember: Your Wellbeing Matters Too

It is important to mirror the survivors’ language and not to label their experiences when they may not have the words to do so themselves. Pay attention to their language and gently introduce new terms without defining their experiences. Here are some examples of how to respond and create a space to provoke critical thinking that can help understand abuse and change thought processes. 

• “I understand that controlling what you wear is normal in your relationship but is that something that has been normal in the past? Or what would you say to me if I told you the person I was with was controlling what I wore?” 
• “What if I told you that my partner did not give me access to my income? If that happened to me I would be very upset, do you understand why that would make me upset?” 
• “I totally understand that your partner would be upset about talking about this, but do you think it is appropriate for them to hurt you physically because you upset them?”
• “I am not judging you, I understand this is a person you love or care about but is how you are treated how you would treat others?”
• “There is nothing you can do that warrants or justifies physical violence.”

Supporting someone in an abusive relationship can be emotionally taxing. It’s important to acknowledge that you are not responsible for what happens inside the relationship. You may hear things that can be shocking and disturbing which can impact your emotions. Although, to a survivor this may be normal to them.  Take cues from the survivor, as they may not be ready to completely open up. The most important thing is to identify yourself as a safe space. 

Your presence and support can make a life-changing difference. Every small act of compassion such as listening to them vent, providing validation, and offering small gestures to make the process easier builds trust and can empower survivors to take action. Additionally, be mindful to take care of yourself during this time. Hearing that someone you love is experiencing abuse can be taxing and very emotional, it is important to take care of yourself and your own emotional wellbeing so that you can show up. Providing support means being informed, patient, and compassionate. You may not be able to change the situation, but your support can plant the seeds of change and hope for a better future.

Sources

1. How to Support Someone Who is Experiencing Domestic Violence | RAINN. (2019). Rainn.org. https://rainn.org/news/how-support-someone-who-experiencing-domestic-violence?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwna6_BhCbARIsALId2Z3g-Dx6_0mkMYxoEjS28nBCyC5sfvjRF6r6I8fTAIqp3G142sGXAkQaAiuDEALw_wcB
2. Holding Space: Three Ways to Support Domestic Violence Survivors. (2024, September 13). The Hotline. https://www.thehotline.org/resources/three-ways-to-support-domestic-violence-survivors/
3. What If Someone You Know Is Experiencing Abuse. (n.d.). Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center. https://jeannegeigercrisiscenter.org/get-help/get-help-for-someone-else/
4. Women’s aid. (2024). I’m not sure if my relationship is healthy. Women’s Aid. https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/the-survivors-handbook/im-not-sure-if-my-relationship-is-healthy/

Support Is Available

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We’re committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

Phone: 1.888.373.7888

Chat: click here to start a chat

Text: Send any message to 988

Website

Domestic Violence Hotline

We are here to serve all those impacted by relationship abuse 24/7 confidentially. Due to high demand, you may experience longer wait times to connect with a live advocate.

Phone: 800-799-7233

Text: “START” to 88788

Online chat: Click here to start chat

Website

The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline

The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and has given assistance to more than 2 million help seekers. Serving the U.S. and Canada, the hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with professional crisis counselors who—through interpreters—provide assistance in over 170 languages. The hotline offers crisis intervention, information, and referrals to thousands of emergency, social service, and support resources. All contacts are confidential.

Phone: 800.422.4453

Text: Text “HELP” to 800.422.4453

Chat: Click here to chat

Website

The post What Do I Do When Someone I Know is in an Abusive Relationship? appeared first on Survivors.org.

What is SWOP?

SWOP Behind Bars (SBB) is a national grassroots social justice network dedicated to the fundamental human rights of sex workers, victims of trafficking, and their communities. We focus on those currently incarcerated or seeking re-entry. SWOP BB centers the voices of sex workers and trafficking victims as we work to end violence and stigma by providing direct services, resources, community-building projects, educational programs, and advocacy.

The post Sex Workers & Sexual Violence appeared first on Survivors.org.

Anti-sexual violence activism tends to center white, straight, cis, able-bodied women. The reality of this issue extends to everyone regardless of race, gender, ability, class, sexuality, or profession. Sexual assault affects not only white women, but men, people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ people, and sex workers. We need to Shatter the Stigma and uplift these voices in our advocacy to ensure that the most vulnerable do not slip through the cracks.

This campaign is working to empower survivors in communities that are often overlooked by raising awareness on the ways they experience sexual violence and how those who exist at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities may be at even greater risk.

Learn More About Intersectionality

Get Involved

Download our social media toolkit to #ShatterTheStigma and raise awareness around these important facts this Sexual Assault Awareness Month

LGBTQIA+ Survivors

Quick Facts

• 44% of lesbian women & 61% of bisexual women experience rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner, compared to 35% of straight women¹
• 26% of gay men & 37% of bisexual men experience rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner, compared to 29% of straight men¹
• 47% of transgender people are sexually assaulted at some point in their lifetime²
• 65% of Indigenous, 59% of Multiracial, 58% of Middle Eastern, and 53% of Black transgender respondents were sexually assaulted in their lifetime²

Resources

The Trevor Project	866.488.7386	Website
The Trans Lifeline	877.565.8860	Website
LGBT National Hotline	888.843.4564	Website

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Learn More

Sexual Violence as a Form of Homophobia

Read More Sexual Violence as a Form of Homophobia

How Transgender People Have Led the Fight Against Sexual Assault

Read More How Transgender People Have Led the Fight Against Sexual Assault

View More

Join The Community

Male Survivors

Quick Facts

• At least 23% of men have experienced unwanted sexual contact in their lifetime, 11% have experienced sexual harassment, and 44% have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime¹
•  At least 46% of teen boys and college men report experiencing sexual coercion in their lifetime³ 

Resources

1 in 6	Website
MenHealing	Website
MaleSurvivor	Website

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Learn More

Sexual Violence Against Men and Boys

Read More Sexual Violence Against Men and Boys

Male Survivors Panel

Read More Male Survivors Panel

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Join The Community

BIPOC Survivors

Quick Facts

• 44% of AAPI women, 21% of AAPI men, and 41% of transgender AAPI experience sexual violence during their lifetime^1,2
• 40% of Black women and 20% Black men will be sexually assaulted at some point during their lifetime¹
• 96% of the Indigenous female survivors experience violence from a non-Indigenous perpetrator⁴
• 34% of Latina women and 33% of Latino men have experienced unwanted sexual contact in their lifetime¹

Resources

ATASK	617.338.2355	Website
Ujima		Website
StrongHearts Native Helpline	844.762.8483	Website
Spanish Sexual Assault Hotline	800.656.4673	Website

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Learn More

Asian American and Pacific Islander Survivor Panel

Read More Asian American and Pacific Islander Survivor Panel

Black Survivors Discussing Mental Health

Read More Black Survivors Discussing Mental Health

Barriers to Reporting & Police Relations within the Indigenous Community 

Read More Barriers to Reporting & Police Relations within the Indigenous Community 

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Join A Community

Survivors with Disabilities

Quick Facts

• 83% of women with disabilities have been sexually assaulted in their lives⁵
• Men with disabilities and deaf men are 2x as likely to experience sexual violence (other than rape) than men without disabilities⁶
• 61% of transgender people with a disability are sexually victimized in their lifetime, which was much more prevalent than those who did not⁷
• Between 97 – 99% of abusers are known and trusted by survivors⁸
  • 32% are family members
  • 44% are caretakers, home health aides and living facility attendants

Resources

American Association of People with Disabilities	Website
Disability Visibility Project	Website

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Learn More

Accessibility for Survivors with Disabilities

Read More Accessibility for Survivors with Disabilities

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Join The Community

Survivors in Sex Work

Quick Facts

Statistics on Sex Workers are limited due to lack of research.

• Globally, sex workers have a 45% to 75% chance of experiencing sexual violence on the job⁹
• Each year, hundreds of murders on transgender people are reported globally, and of those around 60% of the victims are estimated to be sex workers¹⁰
• With the popularization of online sex work via platforms such as OnlyFans, it is believed that the number of sex workers has increased.
  • Over two million content creators produce sexually explicit content for more than 130 million users¹¹

People wrongly believe that sex workers cannot be sexually assaulted, but consent is still present in sex work. Consensual sex work entails that both parties, the participant and the sex worker, must agree to perform sexual acts without revoking their consent or the presence of coercion, including for survival or fear of retaliation.

Resources

Swop USA	Website
NSWP	Website
The Black Sex Worker Collective	Website
Pineapple Support	Website
SWOP Behind Bars	Website

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Learn More

Sex Workers & Sexual Violence

Read More Sex Workers & Sexual Violence

View More

Sources

1. Leemis R.W., Friar N., Khatiwada S., Chen M.S., Kresnow M., Smith S.G., Caslin, S., & Basile, K.C. (2022). The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2016/2017 Report on Intimate Partner Violence. Atlanta, GA: National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
2. James, S. E., Herman, J. L., Rankin, S., Keisling, M., Mottet, L., & Anafi, M. (2016). The report of the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey. Retrieved from the National Center for Transgender Equality: https://www.transequality.org/sites/default/files/docs/USTS-Full-Report-FINAL.PDF
3. French, B. H., Tilghman, J. D., & Malebranche, D. A. (2015). Sexual coercion context and psychosocial correlates among diverse males. Psychology of Men & Masculinity, 16(1), 42–53. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0035915
4. Sexual Violence Against Women and Children in Indian Country. (2025). Niwrc.org. https://www.niwrc.org/sites/default/files/images/resource/niwrc_fact_sheet_sexual_violence_indian_country.jpg
5. Disability Justice. (2014). Sexual Abuse | Disability Justice. Disability Justice. https://disabilityjustice.org/sexual-abuse/
6. Black, M.C., Basile, K.C., Breiding, M.J., Smith, S.G., Walters, M.L., Merrick, M.T., Chen, J., & Stevens, M.R. (2011). The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS): 2010 Summary Report. Atlanta, GA: National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
7. Seelman, K. L. (2015). Unequal Treatment of Transgender Individuals in Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Programs. Journal of Social Service Research, 41(3), 307–325. https://doi.org/10.1080/01488376.2014.987943
8. Baladerian, N.J. Sexual abuse of people with developmental disabilities. Sex Disabil 9, 323–335 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01102020
9. Deering, K. N., Amin, A., Shoveller, J., Nesbitt, A., Garcia-Moreno, C., Duff, P., Argento, E., & Shannon, K. (2014). A systematic review of the correlates of violence against sex workers. American journal of public health, 104(5), e42–e54. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2014.301909
10. Berredo, Lukas, AR Arcon, Amaranta Gómez Regalado, Carter Honorée, Neish McLean, Islèm Mejri,Simran Shaikh, Timofey Shenker, and Vaito’a Toelupe (2018). Global trans perspectives on health and wellbeing: TvT community report. Transrespect versus Transphobia Worldwide project. TGEU.
11. Lippmann, M., Lawlor, N., & Leistner, C. E. (2023). Learning on OnlyFans: User Perspectives on Knowledge and Skills Acquired on the Platform. Sexuality & culture, 1–21. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12119-022-10060-0

The post Shattering The Stigma appeared first on Survivors.org.

Join us this Sexual Assault Awareness Month for our third-annual National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day on April 25th, 2025.

What is a Sexual Assault Advocate?

Sexual assault advocates are professionally and specially trained individuals who respond to and support survivors of sexual assault. Sexual assault advocates’ specific duties vary by location, but most provide emotional support, a lending ear, access to resources, and serve as an echo to a survivors’ needs. Advocates do not make decisions for survivors. They inform survivors of possible options and advocate on their behalf to others. Many advocates are first responders in communities, but their duties are not limited to the acute phase after an assault.

Hear From Real Advocates

Check out our National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day Panel from SAAM 2024!

Celebrate National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day

Download our National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day toolkit to learn more about sexual assault advocates and how you can show your support and appreciation for all that they do.

Thank-you To These Amazing Advocates!

We asked advocacy centers around the nation to nominate exceptional advocates this National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day. These advocates have given survivors priceless support, validation, and resources during some of their most difficult moments. Advocates can change the life of a survivor, and they take on a lot in order to do so. We are so grateful for the work of these, and all, sexual assault advocates, and want to highlight some of the qualities that make them such incredible advocates

Western Advocates

To the advocates who serve along the West Coast, we want you to know you’re greatly appreciated! A very special thank you to…

Mid-Western Advocates

Advocates in the Mid-Western United States, please know you make a huge difference! A very special thank you to…

North Eastern Advocates

We truly appreciate all of the advocates serving survivors on the East Coast! A very special thank you to…

The post National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day appeared first on Survivors.org.

Meet The Panelists

Zahara hussain (she/her/ella)

R.A.C.E.S – Urbana, Illinois

Hello everyone! I’m Zahara Hussain. I grew up in Surrey, Canada; and moved to California at the age of 8. I am the youngest of 9 and have a twin brother. Regardless to say, I’m a member of a large immigrant family. I recently moved to Illinois after 25 years as a Californian. The mid-west is growing on me, but very slowly! I jumped into the work of a bilingual legal and medical advocate at Rape Advocacy, Counseling, Education Services (R.A.C.E.S). I have only resided in the state of Illinois since October of 2023; I am learning and growing each day to be a better human, and a better advocate. I am constantly looking for new resources and making new connections. I was a preschool educator for the past 15 years in California, but decided I would try something new, and haven’t been told I am doing anything wrong yet. There is always room for improvement, and I am happy to be corrected and learn.

Rachel Pearce (she/her)

ARISE – New Castle, Pennsylvania

Rachel is the Director of Community Services at Arise, a dual sexual assault and domestic violence agency in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, and has been with the agency for over 4 years. In her current role, she oversees the Advocacy and Education & Outreach Departments, in addition to managing the volunteer program at Arise. She holds an M.A. in Student Affairs and Higher Education from Slippery Rock University, is a fully trained sexual assault and domestic violence counselor in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and has completed NOVA’s Campus Advocacy Training.

Sarah E. Bariya (she/her)

Tri-valley Haven – Livermore, California

Sarah Edison Bariya has a JD degree and with over ten years of working with law firms and law related fields, she discovered her passion for advocating for the underserved population while working as CASA for the court system of the Eastern Panhandle area. She joined Tri-Valley Haven in 2015 where she has worked for the Homeless Services Department, Domestic Violence Services and she is now the Director of Sexual Assault Services with Tri-Valley Haven.

The post Sexual Assault Advocate Panel appeared first on Survivors.org.