Both stalking and sexual assault can cause victims to experience trauma symptoms. They can experience changes in their sleep patterns, appetite, or routine. They may experience increased anxiety or feel like they have to be hyperaware of their surroundings when in public. They might have flashbacks, nightmares, or persistent unwanted thoughts. They may also experience a variety of physical symptoms, like headaches, general aches, and pains, feelings of weakness or numbness, or changes in weight.
One of the most important connections to recognize between stalking and sexual assault is how misconceptions about both of these topics make them harder to address. Common myths about these crimes stop people from believing that these crimes happen at the rate they occur, prevent people from reporting these crimes to law enforcement, and impede the overall criminal justice process. Learning the facts about stalking and sexual assault is an opportunity for us to speak up against what’s misunderstood and work towards finding better solutions.
– adapted from Heartsofhope.org
If you are experiencing stalking or would like more information, please see the resources below:
Campus Resources
Title IX Coordinator 901.448.2112
UTHSC Campus Police Department 901.448.4444
Counseling support and assistance is available:
Students: SASSI – 901.448.5056 After hours: 901.690.2273
Employees: 855.437.3486 available 24 hours a day