If you have ever been into one of the women’s restrooms at Northern Essex Community College, you may have noticed a paper that describes an abusive relationship, as well as a domestic violence hotline number, and a card for the school’s mental health counselor. If you have only been into the men’s restrooms, you probably haven’t seen this paper.

Why isn’t there a domestic violence hotline number in every bathroom on campus?

According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network), about 10 percent of all sexual assault victims in the United States are male. While this number may seem slight in comparison to 90 percent of reported victims being female, men and boys are statistically less likely to report having been physically or sexually assaulted.

RAINN also states that 68 percent of sexual assaults are not reported to the police. In turn, about 98 percent of rapists are never arrested. Karen Stone, a Certified Nursing Assistant, said, “Men get abused just as much as we do. Men don’t feel they’re manly enough if they report it. Men can get raped. Doctors never ask a man if they feel safe at home, but they ask females.”

Anyone can be abused or assaulted. If it is reported to the proper law enforcement officials, an arrest or conviction of the abuser is more likely. If you are a victim of domestic violence, regardless of gender, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800)799-7233.