Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is an umbrella term that covers any type of unwanted sexual activity, where the victim or survivor did not or could not give consent. It can be perpetrated by a person known to the victim, such as a family member, friend, teacher or an intimate partner, or by an unknown perpetrator. Sexual abuse can have serious long-term physical, psychological and emotional health effects on victims and survivors, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety and physical injuries. Victims of sexual abuse are more likely to engage in risky behaviours and have increased risk of substance abuse. Prevention is key to stopping sexual abuse, and should involve a combination of educating individuals and communities about the signs, risks and impacts of sexual abuse and advocating for the rights of those affected.