TeenNick’s hit show Degrassi collaborated with RAINN for its season premiere, which aired on Tuesday, March 11. The episode’s storyline followed the aftermath of an alcohol-facilitated sexual assault and its impact on Degrassi High School. In conjunction with the episode, TeenNick aired a PSA by actress Ana Golja, which encouraged viewers to get help from the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org).

In the two-part season premiere, a viral video sparks an investigation into the sexual assault of one of the high of students at Degrassi High. Inspired by the high profile sexual assault case in Steubenville, OH, the Degrassi storyline explores the dynamics of alcohol and sexual assault and the involvement of social media in sexual assault investigations. “The season premiere of Degrassi reinforced for viewers that no one is to blame for a sexual assault, except for the perpetrator. It also helped to show the simple steps that friends can take to support a survivor in their life following a sexual assault,” said Katherine Hull, vice president of communications for RAINN.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, it’s never too late to get help. Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE or visit online.rainn.org to chat with a RAINN staff member, 24/7.

Learn how to help a loved one affected by sexual assault.

About Degrassi

Degrassi tackles tough teen issues in a realistic way. Heralded as the most authentic teen drama on television, Degrassi explores a diverse group of adolescents going through the trials and tribulations of teendom at Degrassi Community School.

About RAINN

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of "America's 100 Best Charities" by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,000 local rape crisis centers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. The hotlines have helped more than 1.9 million people since 1994. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice. For more information about RAINN, please visit rainn.org.