The 2^nd October marks the International Day of Non-Violence. Statistics released by the South African Police Service (SAPS) for the period of April 2018 – March 2019, show that 52, 420 sexual offences were recorded (SAPS, 2019).

Reportedly, 45.6% of South African women experience physical and sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) and non-partner sexual violence. The mental health implications are extensive, and include possible depression, anxiety, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse (Mpani and Nsibande, 2015).

The South African Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse (SAMSOSA) reports that in 2012, 19.4% of sexual assault victims were men (Maseko, 2015). This figure is likely much higher, as many cases are not reported due to the shame and mockery victims are subjected to. Male victims of sexual crimes demonstrate an increased risk of PTSD, depression, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts and behaviour, and intimacy challenges.

The University of Cape Town’s Children’s Institute notes that 41% of all reported rape cases account for child victimisation. Immediate psychological symptoms may include shock, fear, anxiety, guilt, withdrawal, and symptoms of PTSD. Long-term effects extending into adulthood may include depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-mutilation, suicidal thoughts and behaviour, and substance abuse (Jamieson et al, 2017).

There are organisations available for men, women and children survivors of sexual assault:

On the 16th of September 2019, PsySSA Student Division (SD), in collaboration with the Student Society of Psychology (SSP) of the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, hosted its first Psychology Professions Day at Howard Campus. The aim of the event was to provide a platform for students to interact with professionals in the field, learn about various volunteering opportunities and network with other students from various colleges and universities.

Students were invited to attend this free event and the 120 available seats reached capacity within days.  The planning committee consisted of the Student Division’s Secretary, Ms Rivendri Govender; Additional Executive Committee Member, Ms Lynne Richards; and SSP Chairperson, Ms Noor Ahmad.

A diverse selection of guest speakers fulfilled the aim of educating students about the various opportunities available to them in the Psychology profession. The Student Division Chairperson, Mr Muhammed Yaeesh Cassim, was invited as the keynote speaker. Furthermore, several PsySSA professional members presented including, Prof Theophilus Lazarus, Mr Suntosh Pillay and Prof Nhlanhla Mkhize. PsySSA was represented at the event and hosted an exhibition table along with the SD.

The event also sought to promote transformation and develop solutions to the current employment crisis. Over the next few weeks, interviews with the invited speaks will be released via the SSP & SD social media pages, giving their take on current challenges facing psychology and students.

The Student Division extends its gratitude to SSP and UKZN and looks forward to all future collaborations.  

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