What is Stalking?
Stalking is a pattern of repeated, unwanted attention, harassment, contact, or behavior directed at someone that causes them to feel afraid, unsafe, or harassed.
Stalking Myths & Facts:
Download Stalking Myths & Facts
Examples of What Can Be Considered Stalking:
- Repeated, unwanted calls, texts, or DMS.
- Showing up at your dorm, house, class or workplace uninvited.
- Following you or watching you from a distance.
- Using social media or technology to track you (like location sharing, fake accounts, GPS tracking).
- Sending unwanted gifts or notes.
- Spreading rumors or posting about you online.
- Having their friends or family follow, watch or harass you on their behalf.
Safety Tips if You or Someone You Know is Experiencing Stalking:
- Change your routes/ routine when going to class or work.
- Block/report unwanted calls or accounts.
- Share your situation with a trusted friend/ roommate/family member so they can support you.
- Keep your phone charged and always on you.
- Document everything-save texts, DMS, gifts, voicemails, or screenshots.
- Keep a “Stalking Log”: Stalking Incident & Behavior Log.
You do not have to report your experience to the University or other legal authorities to get support. Victim Advocates are here for you whether or not you choose to report. The choice is yours.
Support Measures
- Counseling & Victim Advocates: Free & confidential support is available through House of Ruth Hotline or through ULV CAPS
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Personalized Safety Plan: Work with a Victim Advocate to create strategies for navigating daily life more safely.
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Resource Navigation: Victim Advocates can walk you through available campus and community support, whether you decide to make a formal report, or not.
Reporting Measures
Victim Advocates:
- If you decide to report to Title IX, Campus Safety or Law Enforcement, a Victim Advocate can accompany you and provide more information. Victim Advocates are confidential, trained professionals who provide support, guidance, navigate reporting processes and provide access to resources.
Legal Protection:
- Campus No Contact Orders: Title IX can help with “No Contact” orders on campus. Contact ULV Title IX for more information.
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Community Restraining Orders: A Victim Advocate can help you file a restraining order. For more information, visit Restraining Order or visit House of Ruth
- Campus Safety: Report the stalking incidents to Campus Safety, who can assist with safety escorts, documentation and immediate response. For more information, visit: Campus Safety
Self-Care & Healing:
Healing after stalking isn’t on size-fits-all. Some days feel harder than others, and that’s okay. Small steps matter. Here are few ways students can care for themselves:
- Talk to someone you trust- a friend, counselor, or a Victim Advocate.
- Take care of your body- rest, eat, move gently.
- Do things that calm you- jounraling, music, or deep breathing.
- Set boundaries- step back from people or situations that feel unsafe.
You are not alone. Support is available whenever you need it
Additional Resources:
- SPARC : Stalking Prevention Awareness Resource Center
- National Domestic Violence Hotline : Stalking Safety Planning
- RAINN : Stalking Resources
- Los Angeles LGBT Center
- Grounding Techniques