Michigan's new sexual assault hotline was flooded with calls during Senate hearings on a sexual assault allegation against U.S. Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh.
The group that runs the helpline, the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence, says calls to the helpline increased 50 to 100 percent Thursday, as the hearings were widely broadcast throughout the day.
Sarah Prout Rennie is executive director of the MCEDSV. She says, "It really is putting survivors back in their own trauma spaces and coupled with the fear of those that want to come forward that they won't be believed."
According to Rennie, many of the survivors calling the helpline are dealing with symptoms like nightmares, inability to sleep, and uncontrollable crying.
In addition to the helpline, MCEDSV can connect survivors with counseling and other resources in their area. The helpline number is 1-800-855-VOICES4.
