On Kobe Bryant; How do we mourn those accused of terrible things?

Where do we draw the line between apathy and mourning after the death of an individual credibly accused of horrible things? Do we define an individual by the wrong that they may have done or do we only pay attention to the good when they die? And when is the “right” time to discuss these … More On Kobe Bryant; How do we mourn those accused of terrible things?

JDoe: Report Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Anonymously

Report sexual assault/harassment anonymously as a survivor/witness. When the justice system fails us, when we live in a rape culture, when you are too scared to come forward as a witness or survivor, report through JDoe. Together, we can puts crimes on the map so we can know how safe our communities are. If you … More JDoe: Report Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Anonymously

The Relationship between Mental Health, Mental Illness and Chronic Physical Conditions

Mental health and physical health are fundamentally linked. People living with a serious mental illness are at higher risk of experiencing a wide range of chronic physical conditions. Conversely, people living with chronic physical health conditions experience depression and anxiety at twice the rate of the general population. (December, 2008) By The Canadian Mental Health Association

Helping a friend that has been sexually assaulted

“If your friend was sexually assaulted, she or he may experience the following: Shock Disbelief Anger Mood swings Irritability Disturbances in eating and sleeping habits Denial Fear Helplessness Embarrassment Depression Inability to concentrate or relax Resurfacing memories of past abuse For some, the emotional impact of sexual assault can be immediate and short term. For … More Helping a friend that has been sexually assaulted

Your Community Action Toolkit: How to Get Started Advocating for a Cause

The Catalysts for Change shares information on various mental illnesses and disorders, domestic violence, and sexual assault (particularly on campuses), as well as resources. Reach out to us today! Everyone can dream of a better world, but creating it requires more than dreams. It calls for action. However, creating grassroots momentum for a cause can … More Your Community Action Toolkit: How to Get Started Advocating for a Cause

How to be an Active Bystander

“Sexual assault and relationship abuse impact many people on college campuses. Nationally, it’s estimated that 1 in 5 women will be sexually assaulted in their lifetimes and that they are most vulnerable between the ages of 16 and 24. College-aged men and women also experience relationship abuse at high rates. Some simple steps to becoming an Active Bystander: Notice the … More How to be an Active Bystander

Repost: Mindfulness

Mindfulness in its modern meaning is inspired by a concept present in the Buddhist tradition. People often spend most of their time thinking about the past and the future. They do their daily tasks while their mind is wandering wherever. We are either in our past when our mind wanders and stops on bad experiences, … More Repost: Mindfulness

Supporting a Survivor: The Basics by Know Your IX

“When a survivor comes out about having been sexually assaulted or abused by an intimate partner — whether it be their first time telling anyone or their hundredth — recognize that the process can be extremely difficult and that you should be as supportive as possible. When a victim comes out to you, remember that … More Supporting a Survivor: The Basics by Know Your IX

Title IX Retaliation: What to Know When Filing a Claim

“Over forty years ago, Congress enacted Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) to eliminate sex discrimination in educational institutions. Though much progress has been made since Title IX’s enactment, gender equity issues continue to plague colleges and universities. While responsibility for ensuring full and effective compliance with Title IX requires institutional … More Title IX Retaliation: What to Know When Filing a Claim