Sexual Assault and Substance Abuse
Protecting Victims of Sexual Assault and Exploitation
Sexual Exploitation occurs when someone takes sexual advantage of another person without that person’s consent. Sexual Exploitation can be, but is not limited to:
- Invasion of sexual privacy
- Sexual voyeurism
- Prostituting another individual (Human Trafficking)
- Taking pictures or video or audio recording another in a sexual act, or in any other private activity without the consent of all involved.
- Sending unsolicited nude pictures/videos
- Knowingly transmitting an STI or HIV to another person.
- Exposing one’s genitals in non-consensual circumstances; inducing another to expose their genitals.
If you are a victim of sexual exploitation or sexual assault, or if you are someone trying to help a victim, you can always report what has happened to the OEC/Title IX. You have rights and options available to you. You can feel safe and protected as you walk through this process; we encourage you to contact the OEC so we can offer you the support you need to get through this time. You also have the option of talking with a confidential resource.
Sexual assault is a highly traumatic event, and it’s common to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) afterward. Sexual assault can have long-lasting psychological, emotional, and physical effects that cause great difficulty in everyday life. Sexual trauma affects survivors differently, but some common outcomes include:
- Withdrawing from close relationships.
- Developing intimacy disorders.
- Turning to substance abuse, eating disorders, or high-risk sexual behaviors.
- Developing depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders
Sexual Assault and Substance Use
Drugs and alcohol are sometimes used by perpetrators to subdue a victim and inhibit the victim’s ability to resist sexual contact. Some research shows that sexual assault perpetrators are under the effects of alcohol or drugs in 60-65% of the cases. Alcohol and other substances complicate consent because they impair our judgment, affect our capacity to communicate, and impact our ability to interpret others’ communication. If you choose to partake, remain vigilant and consider these preventative measures:
- Don’t leave drinks uncovered or unattended
- Never accept a drink or drugs from a stranger
- If consuming drugs or alcohol, remain in a safe place with trusted friends
- Share plans with friends/family that you trust
- Avoid going into isolated areas
- Know your limits and avoid overconsumption
Alcohol and drugs are also a common coping mechanism to numb the pain and the memories of a sexual assault. The use of alcohol and drugs is one of the most common self-medicating coping mechanisms. If this is you, you are not alone. At Liberty University, our Student Care and Counseling Center offers students the option of substance abuse counseling and the Office of Community Life provides substance use prevention education.