Due to the many different traumatic elements of experiencing relationship violence or sexual assault, many people decide that it’s simply not worth it to try to reach out for help. Not being believed or being blamed for what happened is simply too painful to take that risk. Please know that your story is safe at Counseling and Psychological Services. We believe you, and we can help you in a confidential setting, whether you need help determining your next steps or simply need a place to talk.
Signs you might be in an unhealthy relationship:
- You feel like you can’t live without your partner.
- You stop seeing friends and family or give up activities you enjoy because your partner doesn’t like them.
- You feel like you have to keep your partner from getting angry.
- You stop expressing opinions that your partner disagrees with.
- You feel that you are the only person who can help your partner and that you can change them.
- Your partner threatens self-harm if you leave.
Ways you can support others:
- Know that leaving an unhealthy relationship is scary at best, and often truly dangerous. Be patient and supportive, never critical.
- False reporting of sexual assault is incredibly rare. If someone opens up to you about an assault, believe them and offer to help (resources are below).
- Secondary trauma is real – there are confidential resources so that you don’t have to help someone by yourself.
- Join the Title IX Student Alliance.
WSU Resources
Counseling and Psychological Services offers confidential support to anyone who has experienced relationship violence or sexual assault. We’ll also consult with you about how to help a friend or a family member. Find out more about us at www.wichita.edu/caps or in the Student Wellness Center located in the Steve Clark YMCA building.
We understand why many people choose not to report. We also know that most people who commit these acts don’t stop on their own. If you wish to report an incident anonymously, please do so. But also know that the more information you are willing to provide, the more we can do to ensure that it doesn’t happen again to you or to someone else. Reports can be filed here.
If you would prefer to get help off campus, please contact the Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center. Their services are free, confidential and available 24/7: http://wichitasac.com or 316-263-3002.