September is World Sexual Health Month, with this year’s theme centered on Sexuality Education for all: A bridge to sexual health.
The American Sexual Health Association (ASHA) is using this month to spotlight diverse perspectives on sexual health including teacher/student voices speaking up about the importance of comprehensive sexual education, LGBTQ resources, and stories and testimonials from active duty service members.
They’ll also be releasing new episodes of their 5-minute podcast, The Quickie, each week this month. The most recent episode covers sexual assault and issues of consent on college campuses and highlights some startling statistics. For instance, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, approximately 1 in 5 women and 1 in 16 men will experience sexual assault during their college career. Furthermore, 84% of women that report sexual coercion, experience those incidents during their first 4 semesters on campus.
Let this month be an important time to remind one another about what consent really means. There’s a lot more to it than just understanding that “no means no” and “yes means yes”.
Take 2-minutes to watch this video that will change the way you think about consent.
If you have ever experienced or are dealing with sexual assault, it is never your fault and it can be important to talk to someone. Learn about sexual assault services and support available through the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.
Danielle Lewald, MPH, CPH, Adolescent Health Resource Coordinator, Healthy Start Coalition of Hillsborough County, Inc.