No one should have to face the fear and confusion of sexual abuse in the workplace. Unfortunately, it is a reality for many people—from federal employees to restaurant workers—and can cause great suffering and disruption. It’s important to know how to protect yourself from sexual abuse in the workplace, so you can be prepared if it ever happens to you. Here are some steps you can take to make sure your workplace is a safe and secure environment.
1. Have a Lawyer
Los Angeles sexual harassment attorneys has experience pursuing sexual abuse and molestation cases. They serve victims of sexual abuse throughout Northern and Southern California from offices in Oakland, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Their attorneys understand the very sensitive nature of these cases and are accustomed to compassionately serving their clients .
It is important to have a lawyer on your side if you experience sexual abuse in the workplace. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and ensure that any legal proceedings are handled appropriately. Make sure to find a lawyer who specializes in employment law, so they can best advocate for you. Additionally, sexual abuse attorneys may be able to provide you with emotional and psychological support as well. If you can’t afford a lawyer, your state may have legal aid programs that provide assistance. While not every situation requires legal action, it’s important to have the proper resources available.
2. Document Everything
If you feel as if you are being subjected to sexual abuse or harassment in the workplace, document everything. Keep detailed notes of any conversations, emails, text messages, and other contacts with anyone involved. Include dates and times of all events to create an accurate timeline. This can be used as evidence if necessary. Additionally, don’t delete anything from your work computer or phone—even if it is a personal device. Even things like texts between friends can be used against you by a perpetrator trying to discredit or harass you further. Save everything related to the situation, so there is an accurate record of what has happened.
3. Report the Abuse
It is important to document the abuse and report it promptly. Make sure you keep a record of all communication, including emails, texts, and phone conversations related to the incident. Take detailed notes about what happened, when it happened, and who was involved. Include any witnesses in your recounting of events. If you are comfortable doing so, inform your supervisor or HR department immediately after the incident occurs. If not, speak with another trusted senior member of staff or an external representative like a lawyer or counselor. Remember that some employers have rules requiring employees to report any mistreatment they witness or experience; if this applies in your case, make sure you abide by them.
4. Seek Professional Support
If you have experienced sexual harassment or abuse in the workplace, it is important to seek professional help. There are a number of resources available to victims of sexual harassment and abuse, such as counselors, lawyers, and other advocates who can provide legal assistance and emotional support. Additionally, some employers offer free services like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or anonymous helplines that employees can use for support. Talking to a therapist or counselor can be an invaluable way to get the help you need in dealing with the effects of sexual abuse in the workplace.
5. Take Care of Yourself Physically and Mentally
It is important to take care of yourself physically and mentally in order to stay safe and healthy. Make sure you get enough sleep, exercise regularly, eat nutritious meals, and find ways to manage stress. Additionally, instead of bottling up your emotions or feeling ashamed about the experience, talk to someone who can provide emotional support—such as a friend or family member, a close colleague, a psychologist, or another mental health professional. This can be a valuable way to process the trauma and start to heal.
6. File a Complaint with the EEOC
If the issue is still not resolved after using all other interventions, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is responsible for enforcing Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other laws that protect employees from discrimination. To file a complaint, contact an EEOC field office in your state or visit their website for more information. Also make sure to keep any documentation related to the incident, as it may help strengthen your case.
Sexual harassment and abuse in the workplace are serious issues that must be addressed and handled appropriately. It is important to stay vigilant, document everything and report the abuse promptly. Additionally, seeking professional support, taking care of yourself physically and mentally, and knowing your rights when filing a complaint with the EEOC is essential. By taking these steps you can protect yourself from experiencing further harm and begin to heal.
