Every April, communities across the United States recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM)—a national observance dedicated to increasing awareness about sexual violence and empowering individuals, families, and communities to take action. This year’s theme, “Together We Act, United We Change,” is a call-to-action reminder that change is possible when we work together to build safer, more supportive environments for everyone.

Sexual violence is a deeply personal and devastating experience that can affect anyone—regardless of age, gender, background, or community. It takes many forms, including rape, sexual harassment, child sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, and exploitation. In many cases, it is committed by someone the survivor knows and trusts. The impact can last a lifetime, but healing is possible—and it begins with support, compassion, and access to the right resources.

Understanding the Scope

The statistics surrounding sexual violence are staggering. In 2024, 1 in 4 women in the U.S. reported having experienced rape or attempted rape in their lifetime, and about 1 in 26 men reported the same. But these numbers only scratch the surface—many incidents of sexual violence go unreported due to fear, shame, stigma, or lack of access to help.

That’s why awareness months like SAAM are so important. They shine a light on an issue often kept in the dark. They allow survivors to share their stories, raise awareness, and advocate for systems that promote justice, healing, and prevention.

This year’s SAAM theme emphasizes unity: supporting survivors, challenging harmful myths, and actively engaging in conversations that promote respect and equality. We lay the foundation for long-term cultural change when we unite our voices and efforts.

AMHC Sexual Assault Services: Here When You Need Them Most

For individuals in Aroostook, Washington, and Hancock counties, Aroostook Mental Health Services, Inc. (AMHC) offers vital support through its Sexual Assault Services program. These services are available free of charge and provide confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to individuals affected by sexual violence.

Whether someone is experiencing a crisis, needs help navigating the legal system, or wants to talk to someone, AMHC advocates are here to help. They offer emotional support, information about options, and assistance accessing medical care, law enforcement, and other community resources.

In addition to 24/7 helpline support, advocates are available during regular business hours—8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.—at AMHC outpatient offices in Fort Kent, Caribou, Houlton, Calais, Machias, and Ellsworth. This accessibility ensures that survivors have local, consistent support as they begin their healing journey.

AMHC’s 24/7 Sexual Assault Helpline: 1-800-871-7741

Prevention Begins with Education

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is about more than supporting survivors—it’s also about education and prevention. That starts with shifting the way our communities understand, talk about, and respond to sexual violence. It means standing up to victim-blaming, shutting down jokes that normalize assault, and teaching young people about consent and healthy relationships.

One of the most powerful things we can do as a community is to listen to survivors and truly validate their experiences. From there, we can begin to change harmful social norms, increase support for prevention programs, and create environments where everyone feels safe and valued.

At AMHC, prevention is woven into every aspect of their work. Through school-based education, community partnerships, and professional training, they are helping to create a culture where respect, equity, and safety are the norm—not the exception.

A Shared Responsibility

Preventing sexual violence isn’t the job of a single person or organization. We all share responsibility for it—whether by having difficult conversations, advocating for policy change, volunteering our time, or simply offering kindness to someone who needs it. Every action matters.

As April unfolds, we invite you to join this movement. Attend a local event, wear teal in support of survivors, share resources, or take time to learn something new about the issue. Most importantly, remember that your voice matters. We create a chorus of support, solidarity, and hope when we raise our voices.

Final Thoughts

Sexual violence is preventable, and survivors deserve to be believed, supported, and empowered. As we mark Sexual Assault Awareness Month, let’s recommit to working together for change—not just during April, but every day.

Whether you’re a survivor yourself, supporting someone you care about, or simply want to be part of the solution—know that help is available, and you’re not alone.

If you or someone you know needs support, please call AMHC’s 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-871-7741. Compassionate, trained advocates are always available to help.