2 Million Rape Survivors in California: Report

RICHMOND, CA- April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, local law enforcement officials want victims to know how to get help in the East Bay.

Statistics show that one in six women and one in 33 men will be a victim of sexual assault in their lifetime, and more than more than 2 million survivors of rape are currently living in California, says Bay Area Women Against Rape.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice, 60 percent of sexual assault victims did not report to the authorities, and Richmond Police officials want victims to know how to get help.

RPD remind residents that April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) and victims are not alone.

If you have been a victim, you can anonymously receive mental health support by calling the following numbers:

• National Sexual Assault Hotline (24-hour support): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) -Spanish speaking services available
• STAND! Against Families Free of Violence Crisis Line: 888-215-5555 -Spanish speaking services available
• Community Violence Solutions: Rape Crisis Center (24-hour support) 800-670-7273 -Spanish speaking services often available
• Family Justice Center at 256 24th Street, Richmond 510-965-4949

Officials report that many victims experience symptoms that include:

• Fear, including fear of the offender, and men/women in general
• Anxiety and depression
• Feelings of guilt, regret and self-blame
• Post-traumatic stress responses with symptoms including flashbacks, nightmares, and withdrawal from people and situations.

Image via University of Washington