Harassment is a pressing issue that affects people from all walks of life. It can happen in school, the workplace or even at home. It's important to understand what harassment is, how to deal with it, and the significance of speaking up if you ever experience it.
Here we explore different types of harassment, provide strategies for coping with it, and shed light on gender-based violence (GBV).
Remember, your voice matters, and getting help is the first step towards healing and justice.
Types of harassment
Harassment can manifest in various forms, and it's crucial to recognise them. Some common types of harassment include:
Verbal harassment: Offensive or derogatory language, threats or name-calling. It can happen in person, online or through text messages.
Physical harassment: Unwanted physical contact or actions such as pushing, hitting or inappropriate touching.
Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, comments or actions that make you uncomfortable or violate your boundaries.
Cyberbullying: With the rise of technology, cyberbullying has become prevalent. It involves harassment through online platforms, social media or text messages.
Discrimination: When someone treats you unfairly or differently based on your race, gender, religion, sexual orientation or any other personal characteristic.
How to deal with harassment
Dealing with harassment can be challenging, but there are strategies to help you navigate through it:
Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong or makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts. Your feelings are valid and you have the right to speak up.
Seek support: Talk to a person you trust, such as a friend, family member, colleague or teacher. They can provide guidance, support and help you through the process of addressing the harassment.
Document the incidents: Keep a record of the harassment incidents, including dates, times, locations and descriptions. This documentation can serve as evidence if you decide to report the harassment.
Report the harassment: Depending on the situation, report the harassment to a person in authority such as a teacher, school counsellor or your parents. They can take appropriate action and ensure your safety.
Speaking up against gender-based violence
This is a severe form of harassment that specifically targets individuals based on their gender.
It includes physical, sexual, emotional or psychological harm inflicted upon someone due to their gender identity or expression.
GBV is an alarming issue, and it's crucial to break the silence surrounding it.
If you or anyone you know experiences GBV or any type of violence, it's essential to speak up. Here are some ways to seek help:
Whisper it: Share your experience with a person you trust. This could be a family member, friend, teacher or counsellor. Opening up to someone can provide emotional support and guidance.
Talk to a person in authority: Approach someone in authority, such as a teacher, school counsellor or supervisor at work. They can help you take the necessary steps to address the situation.
Send an email: If you feel uncomfortable discussing the harassment in person, consider sending an email to a trusted person, a helpline or organisation specialising in supporting victims of harassment.
Shout it out: In cases of immediate danger or threat to your safety, don't hesitate to seek help from people nearby. Shout for assistance or call emergency services to ensure your immediate safety.
GetSavvi Health's WHISPA benefit
GetSavvi Health's WHISPA benefit offers crucial support to members who have experienced trauma or GBV, or been exposed to HIV. With 24/7 telephonic counselling and face-to-face support, they provide immediate assistance by offering care for emotional distress and post-traumatic stress, and treatment to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
Remember that getting help is essential.
GetSavvi Health members
If you’ve been a victim of harassment or GBV, contact our Call Centre on 0861 18 92 02 and follow the voice prompts.
Non-GetSavvi Health members
We understand that experiencing harassment and gender-based violence can be incredibly distressing. If you aren’t a member of GetSavvi Health but are seeking support and assistance, we want to provide you with information on government support programmes available in South Africa.
Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC)
Call: 0800 428 428 (available 24/7)
SMS: "Help" to 31531 (available 24/7)
Rape Crisis
Call: 021 684 1180