The University of Alabama’s Sexual Misconduct Policy states that the University will not pursue disciplinary violations against a student for their improper use of alcohol or drugs (e.g., underage drinking) if the student makes a good faith report of Prohibited Conduct or participates in a Title IX investigation. The Title IX Coordinator (or designee) may, however, refer a student to substance abuse counseling depending on the circumstances of the individual situation. For more information on the University‘s Medical Emergency Assistance Policy, please visit https://www.ua.edu/about/policies/.
If you are struggling with drug and/or alcohol abuse, there are resources available to you. Collegiate Recovery and Intervention Services and Indian Rivers Mental Health Center are two options within The University of Alabama and the local community.
Research indicates that trauma may lead to fragmented memories, based on how the brain encodes and stores information (National Institute of Justice, 2012). Memory loss after trauma does not mean an event was less traumatic. The WGRC recognizes and respects your right to not be shamed or blamed for having been a victim of interpersonal violence (dating/domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment, abuse, stalking, etc.).
At the WGRC, we have an abundance of resources available which includes advocacy, counseling, and crisis services. All services are confidential. We currently have four staff therapists and a victim advocate available during regular hours and one person on-call 24/7 (including holidays). The WGRC prioritizes your safety and well-being and respects your right to be treated with dignity and respect in a safe environment.
According to the 2011 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, 45.5% of female rape victims and 29% of male rape victims had a perpetrator who was an intimate partner. An estimated 15.8% of women and 30.9% of men experienced other forms of sexual violence by an intimate partner during their lifetimes. As stated in the University of Alabama’s Sexual Misconduct Policy, previous consent does not grant consent to future sexual acts.
More than half (58.4%) of women who experienced alcohol/drug facilitated assault were victimized by an acquaintance (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2011).
Silence does not mean permission was granted.
There is no evidence that alcohol and/or substance use causes abuse. Although excessive drinking may be associated with higher abuse rates, other factors are also involved (Kanter and Straus, 1987).
If you experience violence under these circumstances and are unsure of what needs you may have, please contact the WGRC in order to discuss the relationship further.
Not all abuse is physical. Nearly half of men and women have experienced psychological abuse (National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, 2010). The WGRC recognizes the need to serve all those that have experienced any form of interpersonal violence, including verbal and emotional abuse.
