Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
We are made up of many parts that define who we are. Sexual orientation and gender identity are significant components of our identity.
We live in a world where it isn’t always simple to be our true selves. It’s not always easy to understand ourselves, let alone share it with others, especially when it comes to our sexual orientation or gender identity. Whether you are just starting to ask questions, or already know who you are, there is room for every feeling, every thought, and every pace.
Gender Identity
Gender identity is the internal way each of us experiences and feels our own gender. Our gender identity can be male, female, a combination of both, or neither. Gender identity stems from our inner feelings and does not always align with societal expectations or the sex we were assigned at birth. It can be expressed in various ways and may evolve over time.
Sexual Orientation
Sexual orientation refers to our romantic or sexual attraction toward others, if such attraction exists. Each of us experiences sexual orientation differently—being attracted to men, women, all genders, or a wide range of gender identities. Some individuals may not experience sexual attraction at all. Just like gender identity, sexual orientation is a unique and profound part of our self-understanding, and there is no single “right” way to experience it.
How we choose to define ourselves is entirely personal
This choice reflects our inner experience. Exploring our gender identity and sexual orientation can be a profound, empowering, and sometimes challenging journey—especially if we feel there is no room or “permission” for the questions and feelings we have. This is a deeply personal process, and everyone has the right to move at the pace that feels right for them.
What Happens After Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault has a profound and often lasting impact. Its effects are felt immediately after the incident and can continue for a long time. Sexual trauma affects both the body and the mind, and every reaction you have, no matter how much time has passed, is normal.
Read more
The feelings that arise after sexual assault are diverse and often confusing. You may experience physical pain, unexplained fatigue, fears, and a sense of loss of control. The body, which is our physical home in the world, can suddenly feel foreign or threatening. This may lead to feelings of discomfort, distance, or a sense of detachment (dissociation) from oneself.
The assault can also change how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. Feelings of guilt and shame often accompany the trauma, even when there is no reason to blame yourself. You may be overwhelmed by thoughts like “Maybe it happened because of something I did” or “What will people think of me if they find out?”
These thoughts are completely natural, but they can cause us to withdraw from others and make it difficult to ask for help and support. It is important to remember that with the right support and care, it is possible to cope and recover from sexual assault.
What Is Considered Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is any situation in which a person coerces, attempts to coerce, or pressures another person into a sexual act without clear and free consent.
This includes:
- Unwanted physical touch.
- Offensive sexual remarks or harassment.
- The non-consensual exposure to or distribution of sexual images and content.
Read more
Sometimes, it is difficult to recognize an experience as “assault,” especially when it involves someone close to us or situations where boundaries were blurred.
Sexual assault can occur at any age, in any environment, and across all socio-economic backgrounds. It can be a one-time incident or ongoing abuse. Any violation of personal and sexual boundaries is a difficult experience that can have a deep impact.
Every one of us deserves to feel safe and respected within our personal space and our own bodies. Understanding this helps us recognize instances of harm and acknowledge that what happened was wrong.
If You Experienced Sexual Assault in the Past Week
There Sexual Assault Centers, designed to assist and support survivors of sexual assault. These centers provide emergency medical-preventive care as well as emotional support.
While you are not obligated to go to an Acute Room, it is important to know that the first few days after an assault are critical for receiving initial medical and emotional care. These centers also collect forensic evidence should you decide to pursue legal action.
Read more
- Timeframe: You can arrive at an Acute Room up to one week after the incident.
- Recommendation: It is highly recommended to arrive within 72 hours to allow for the best medical care and evidence collection.
- Confidentiality: Care and assistance are provided with strict confidentiality.
- Staff: These centers operate 24/7 with professional teams specially trained to provide care and support during the sensitive period following an assault.
Articles on the Topic
Suspected Sexual Abuse: How to Talk with Children and Adolescents? As parents, it is crucial to find the right balance between the need to protect our children and warn them of dangers, and the need to raise them with basic trust and confidence in the world and in people. It is important to establish healthy […]
The digital world: social media, apps, and the wider internet, has become an inseparable part of our lives. We work, study, communicate, and share experiences through our screens. The virtual space can be a place for connection and self-expression, personal growth, learning, and building new relationships. However, alongside all the benefits and opportunities, the internet […]
Self Help Tips
Always remember – it’s not my fault
Sexual assault is never the fault of the person harmed. The guilt always belongs to the perpetrator. Sexual assault is not “sexual behavior”, it is an act of control and violence. It is never your fault.
Initial Medical Care
Following an assault, you can receive medical assistance at dedicated centers located nationwide. These centers operate 24/7 with specialized professional teams. All care is provided discreetly and confidentially.
Allow Yourself to Have Every Emotion and Thought
Every reaction you have is legitimate. It is okay to experience any feeling, physical sensation, or thought that arises. Sexual trauma can trigger all kinds of emotions, sometimes even contradictory ones. There is no “right” way to feel or react. Give yourself the space and permission to experience it all at your own pace.
Sharing, But Only When You Are Ready
You can share your experience with a trusted friend or family member, or turn to organizations and hotlines that provide support for survivors of sexual assault. Talking can help release and Relieve the Burden of what you are going through. Remember: you have the power to choose what, when, and how much you want to share.