If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to the VPVA office at 973-972-4636 or email us at vpva@rbhs.rutgers.edu . Want to practice some self-care on your own time? Flip through our Care For You workbook below.

I Am a Victim/Survivor

If you have experienced sexual violence, dating violence, and/or stalking it is not your fault. You are not alone. We are here to help.

Are you currently safe?

If you are concerned about your safety or someone else’s, please call RUPD or your local police department.

If you are safe and looking for support services, continue reading and/or call VPVA at 973-972-4636.

How are you feeling?

Interpersonal violence can look different in each situation. For more information on the range of violence, visit our general info page. If you have been feeling confused, afraid, or violated, consider talking to someone. Reaching out for support from a friend or a resource like VPVA can help you gain better understanding of what you are experiencing.

It is normal to have shifting reactions and emotions during and following violent interactions. Experiencing violence is often a traumatic experience. Have you noticed any of the following?

Changes in sleeping or eating patterns?
Increases in risky behavior?
Changes in social activity and difficulty trusting others?
Differences in your ability to function at work or in school?
Feelings of confusion, guilt, anger, denial, numbness, shame, fear, sadness, or self-blame.

Talking with someone can help you process the difficult thoughts and feelings you might be having, by giving you information and support on ways to handle what is happening in a safe setting. Our counseling services give you the opportunity to share what’s on your mind and answer questions you might have.

What can you do?

We know that all people, regardless of race, culture, gender identity, or sexual orientation, experience sexual and dating violence. We are here to support you with the decisions that feel best for you.

Beyond counseling, VPVA can provide information about options for dealing with what has happened. Speaking to VPVA does not mean that a report to the University or to police will be filed. We can provide information to help you explore your reporting, health, and support options and will respect your informed decision. We understand that the choice is your own to make, and can be difficult.

Whether it’s helping you navigate a reporting process, talking through a safety plan, or helping you identify support systems, VPVA can provide assistance in finding what you need.

Call us at 973-972-4636.

¹ National Sexual Violence Resource Center. (2010). What is sexual violence: Fact sheet. Retrieved from http://www.nsvrc.org/sites/default/ﬁles/Publications_ NSVRC_Factsheet_What-is-sexual-violence_1.pdf