Women all around the world fear for their safety when going into public settings, especially younger girls. From birth to death, girls are constantly at risk of being harassed. Whether that be something as simple as being catcalled on the streets to being sexually assaulted in a private setting, it is still happening.

While women are the main targets of being harassed and sexually assaulted, men also struggle with it. Despite the disapproval of many men, this issue is not seen as an equal problem. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC), one out of 71 men has been a victim of rape, or around 1.4% of men have been victims of sexual assault. These statistics should be more widely recognized.

Also, according to NSVRC, 81% of women are victims of sexual violence in their lifetime. Girls under the age of 18 are 42.2% more likely to experience their first account of rape. That is about one in three women that are raped between the ages of 11 to 17.

Women who have been victims of sexual violence are more likely to struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depressive thoughts after the fact. 94% of women report PTSD in the following two weeks, 30% of women report having PTSD after nine months. Not only do women struggle with PTSD after the fact, but 33% have thoughts of suicide and 13% either commit suicide or have attempted suicide.

Not only does it increase the stress levels of women, but it also increases the likelihood of substance abuse. Women who have been victims of sexual violence are three times more likely to use marijuana. They are six times more likely to use cocaine and ten times more likely to use other hard substances as a coping mechanism.

While all these facts are presented, why does it still get pushed off to the side? Why do both women and men have to fear the fact that it may be them next? This issue has become something that people have to fear in society, and it is not right. For decades, sexual assault and rape have been happening, and somehow they have not been well controlled. Everyone preaches about it, but it still happens. There are people sent to jail for it, but people still aren’t scared to do it.

In fact, jail time for rape is often three to 16 years, and sometimes it is even less if the convict is let out with parole for good behavior. While those who are charged with sexual battery are eligible for six to 30 months of jail time, they could be given an additional fine of up to $10,000.

With sexual violence being a major issue in our society, involving the authorities after the fact is always suggested. Although it may be difficult for some to involve local authorities, it is always the best option.