Sexual assault can have a variety of short- and long-term effects on mental health. Many survivors report flashbacks of their assault and feelings of shame, isolation, shock, confusion and guilt. Longer term, some people experience depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. So, what are some resources that are available to survivors of sexual violence, when it comes to mental wellness?
If you would like to talk to someone about every possible option available, SHARE is a great place to start! Melody, the SHARE advisor, can help present different counselling and resource options, and you can make an informed decision in terms of what you think would work for you.
Some of the resources that might be presented to you include both on- and off-campus counselling, as well as different phone numbers to call. It can seem like a lot of information, but I will lay it all out for you here.
Survivor Support Group: SHARE and the Wellness Centre are offering a six-week-long support group session for survivors of sexual violence, on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m. Contact [email protected] for more information!
On-campus counselling: The Wellness Centre has counselling walk-in sessions on Mondays and Tuesdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., and Thursdays from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. You can also book an appointment for another time by emailing [email protected] or visiting the Wellness Centre in the basement of the Wallace McCain Student Centre. They can also make arrangements for you to see a clinical psychologist on campus.
Some good phone numbers to know:
The South East Sexual Assault Centre (Moncton) can offer 24-hour advice, resources and access to counselling specifically for survivors of sexual violence. Give them a call at 1-844-853-0811.
CHIMO Helpline is a provincial crisis line, available 24 hours a day: 1-800-667-5005
We know that it can be overwhelming to be presented with all of these different resources, but it is so important to know that you are NOT alone, and that help is available from a variety of different places! If you are overwhelmed and are unsure of what to do, SHARE is the best place to start.
Contact SHARE: [email protected], 506-540-7427
