Get Help
Where to get support as a survivor of sexual violence. We believe you and we are here for you.
Where to start?
Immediately after a sexual assault or other forms of sexual violence– Go to a Safe Place. Everyone deals with violence and trauma differently. There are no “right” or “wrong” paths to healing. It’s ok to feel like you don’t know what to do next.
Acknowledge what happened
Being honest and compassionate with yourself about what happened is an important first step. If something happened to you that is upsetting you, saying that it was “normal” or “not that bad” or that you will just “get over it” will not make it go away, and it is important to seek support.
Safety First: For immediate and ongoing safety needs
- Emergency: Dial 911 (toll free) 24/7
An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire department or ambulance.
- NSCAD Fountain Campus Security 24/7 Cell: 902-877-0764
Seek Medical Attention
If you have recently been sexually assaulted it is important to have your medical needs addressed. Even if there are no obvious signs of injury, contact the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) 24/7 902.425.0122, immediately and within 7 days after a sexual assault, to preserve physical evidence, treat any physical injuries and test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy, A support person is welcome to accompany you.
Access Supports
- Connect with the Director of Opportunity & Belonging at NSCAD. The Director of Opportunity & Belonging is here to help you and your point of contact for disclosing sexual violence. Their role is to listen, support and help you make informed decisions on next steps, if and when you are ready. They can connect you to services and resources, explain disclosure and reporting options and support you as you decide your next steps. The Director of Opportunity & Belonging meets with students virtually, in person, on the phone, or through email to provide information, connection and support. When working with the Director of Opportunity & Belonging you can expect compassionate, respectful, understanding, and non-judgmental responses.
The Director of Opportunity & Belonging can help with:
- Understanding your options
- Safety planning
- Immediate measures/accommodations
- Information about and referrals to support services available on and off campus
- Academic support/accommodation
- Ongoing support & advocacy
- Reporting on and off campus
- NSCAD’s Registered Counselling Therapist and Counselling Interns
Contact tbhandal@nscad.ca or book an appointment online.
- Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): 1 (800) 387-4765, http://workhealthlife.com
- Student Health Services [Insert University/College Health Services Contact Information]
- Avalon Sexual Assault Centre: 902-422-4240
Avalon Sexual Assault Centre provides the following to women and trans* people: Individual counselling, support and therapy groups, court support, advocacy/support/ referrals, confidential, non-judgmental, and free of charge services.
Email: info@avaloncentre.ca
- Good2Talk Call 1-833-292-3698 or Text GOOD2TALK to 686868
24/7 services are available to post-secondary students in Nova Scotia. Free, confidential support from a professional counsellor on a range of mental health and well-being topics. https://good2talk.ca/novascotia/
Share with someone you trust
This can be hard, not everyone reacts supportively. But going through this alone can be even harder. Share with someone who knows you well and that you trust like a close friend, coach, co-worker, instructor or community advisor. You don’t need to tell them everything, but it can help to tell them how to support you.
For more information on the services and supports available to you, please visit our SUPPORTS & RESOURCES page.
Contact us
The Manager of Opportunity & Belonging is available to support members of the campus community on any issues related to sexual violence.
Contact
Dr. Taq Bhandal