Speak Up or Stay Private after Sexual Harassment or Assault?

Tanya J. Peterson

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Speak Up or Stay Private after Sexual Harassment or Assault?
What are Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault?
From the HealthyPlace Mental Health Blogs
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Surviving sexual harassment or sexual assault is very traumatizing. Is it better to talk about it publicly or keep it to yourself? Find out at HealthyPlace

Speak Up or Stay Private after Sexual Harassment or Assault?

In October, powerful movie maker Harvey Weinstein was revealed to be a sexual predator, thus far accused of sexually harassing and/or assaulting more than 80 women. Since then, hundreds of women, and some men, throughout Hollywood and beyond have spoken up against numerous producers, directors, actors, writers, politicians, and more.

Sadly, sexual harassment and assault can happen anywhere. If it were to happen to you (or if it has), how would you handle it?

What are Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault?

Sexual harassment involves someone, man or woman, making unwanted sexual advances or innuendos to another man or woman and implies that there will be negative consequences if the person doesn’t cooperate (uslegal.com).

Sexual assault is “a sexual act upon or directed to another which is unwanted and not consented to by the other” (Duhaime’s Law Dictionary). Needless to say, the effects of sexual assault can be devastating.

Should You Speak Out of Keep Quiet?

Some people speak out about sexual harassment and assault. In response to movie powerhouse Weinstein, many people have become publically vocal about harassment and assault they have received, protesting and engaging online in the #MeToo campaign. Some reasons people give for being outspoken:

To bring their assailant to justice
To feel a sense of empowerment, that they’re not a helpless victim
To prevent the harasser from tormenting others

Some people, however, prefer to remain quiet about their ordeal. Their reasons are valid, too:

Fear of negative consequences, such as losing their job
Fear of being shunned and/or accused of lying
A desire to just move on

When it comes to speaking out or not, the right thing to do if you face sexual harassment or assault is what works for you and your situation. With the support of someone you trust, seek legal help and mental health help. Doing so will help you sort things out and decide what is best.

Remember that harassment and assault aren’t your fault. Remember, too, that you don’t have to go on a crusade for all of humanity. Take care of yourself and your own wellbeing.

From the HealthyPlace Mental Health Blogs

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Feel free to share your thoughts and comments at the bottom of any blog post. And visit the mental health blogs homepage for the latest posts.

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How to Explain Bipolar Disorder to Others

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