Sexual Assault and Prevention Awareness Month

Have you ever heard of sexual assault awareness month? Or SAAM? Now you have! Every April SAAM aims to raise awareness and prevention of sexual assault, harassment, and abuse.  Since 2001 the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) officially declared April sexual assault awareness month. However, raising awareness for sexual violence began far before 2001; with roots stemming from the civil rights era.

              So why is SAAM so important? Statistically speaking, you probably know someone who has experienced sexual assault, harassment or abuse.  Here are some shocking statistics about the prevalence of sexual violence in our country.  According to the NSVRC, 1 in 5 women in the U.S. experienced an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men reported their first experience being between the ages of 11 and 17.  Nearly 25% or all men report sexual violence of some time in their life.  81% or women and 43% of men report experiencing sexual harassment. In 2018 only 25% of rapes were reported to police which was a 15% decrease from 2017.  The estimated lifetime cost for a victim of sexual assault in $122,461.

              Need I say more? Sexual assault is increasing each year.  It affects too many individuals each year for awareness not to be raised. Are you or a loved one a victim? Many Therapists here at Owens Counseling and highly skilled and trained in trauma therapy.  Call us at 847-854-4333 to set up your appointment today!  You are not alone.

We are here to support you!

Call our admin team at 847-854-4333 or email them at admin@owenscounseling.com to schedule an appointment with one of us.