Substance Abuse and its Link to Sexual Assault
Substance Abuse has four prominent connections to sexual assault:
In any form, 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
(information found at footprintsforecovery.com)
You Are Not Alone
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. For resources and support through the OEC, see our supportive measures.
Amnesty
The OEC provides amnesty meaning that you will not be disciplined for Liberty Way violations that took place in circumstances where you experienced, witnessed, or committed sexual misconduct. For example, if a student shares that they were sexually assaulted at a party and they were also consuming alcohol, amnesty means this student will not be disciplined for drinking alcohol (a Liberty Way violation) because it is related to the sexual assault they experienced.
For more information on the OEC’s amnesty policy, click here!
Safety Tips
Don’t leave your drink uncovered or unattended.
Avoid punch bowls
Never accept a drink from someone that is not trusted but only from the bartender or trusted friend.
If you choose to consume alcohol, make sure you are in a safe place and with trusted people.
Know your limits and avoid overconsumption.
If you are going on a first date, let a friend know the plans beforehand as a security measure.
Do not go to a private room with someone you do not know well.
Trust your gut.
More Information that May Be Helpful: