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14 June 2018 Photo iStock
Dealing with the trauma of sexual assault

University life is supposed to be one of the most enjoyable times of a person’s life. Unfortunately, for some this is the time they may fall victims to sexual assault.
 
The term sexual assault has shockingly become normalised in society and has become a common threat to university students. The University of the Free State (UFS) through its sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, and sexual violence policy strongly condemns any form of sexual abuse. Dr Melissa Barnaschone, Director at Student Counselling and Development (UFS) says the university cares for the health and wellbeing of students and provides necessary support for victims of sexual assault and trauma.
 
It is unfortunate that sexual assault comes with many misconceptions that often shift responsibility and blame from the perpetrator to the victim. “It is important to always remember that it is not your fault; do not blame yourself,” says Dr Barnaschone. Helpguide.Org: Trusted guide to mental & emotional health says sexual assault leaves psychological wounds and sometimes long-lasting health challenges. Such trauma can severely affect a person’s ability to cope with daily academic, social, professional, and personal responsibilities.
 
Any sexual violence is a crime and as a victim, you are not to blame. Healing is achieved when you start to believe that you are not responsible for what happened to you. Visit Helpguide.Org for more information on post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma recovery tips and other related topics.

On this video clip, Dr Barnaschone shares some guidelines to deal with sexual assault and trauma: 

News Archive

Armentum make their mark on Barefoot Day
2015-08-19


On a cloudy day when it seemed that no one would be willing to take off their shoes, Armentum men’s residence and Put Foot Foundation supporters stepped out in their numbers to provide shoes for less fortunate school children.

With a R10 donation, supporters could dip their feet in paint in order to make their mark on the blank canvas in support of this good cause. The main aim of barefoot day is to tackle the daily plight and indignity of school children.

The Armentum students kicked off the event on the Red Square at the UFS Bloemfontein Campus, where they were partnered by the Institute for Reconciliation and Social Justice.

On the day, Dr Choice Mokgetha, Vice-Rector: External Relations, and Prof Nicky Morgan, Vice-Rector: Operations, made a contribution of R1000 for all the foot prints made on the canvas.

“The idea was conceived by the residence and RC Culture, Thapelo Makhubalo. Joining hands with the Institute for Reconciliation and Social Justice made it possible for us to make it an even bigger event. “Since I work at the Institute, and they work with human rights, it was easier to get them on board,” said the Prime of Armentum, Eddie de Wet.

At the end of the event, the blank canvas was filled with footprints supporting the initiative. All proceeds will be used to put shoes on the feet of children.


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