I'm not sure if what I experienced was sexual harassment or not. Here's what happened: I was sitting alone in a locker room when an acquaintance came to stand in front of me, wrapped a ribbon-like fabric around the back of my neck, rubbed it back and forth, and said my name very seductively. It made me feel awful. This wasn't the only time they did this - they also did it from behind once when I was sitting at the edge of a stage. Though brief, it happened in front of others and made me feel humiliated. They're very touchy with me in general even when I never reciprocate, and I've never seen them touch anyone else. Luckily I don't have to see them for a couple months, but it's bothering me a lot, making me nauseated and I have trouble sleeping. Am I overreacting?

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your experience with us. The behavior you've described sounds unwelcome and intrusive, and it's affecting your well-being, which is significant.

First and foremost, you are absolutely not overreacting. Your physical and emotional responses - feeling nauseated, having trouble sleeping, and continuing to feel bothered by these interactions - are all valid reactions to unwanted touch and attention. These are common ways our bodies and minds process uncomfortable or distressing experiences.

From what you've shared, this acquaintance has repeatedly crossed your personal boundaries by touching you in ways that make you uncomfortable, without your consent. They're engaging in behavior that feels sexually suggestive and is causing you distress. This unwanted physical contact and attention could indeed be considered sexual harassment. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that makes you feel humiliated or unsafe.

The fact that this person targets only you with this touching behavior suggests their behavior is intentional and directed specifically at you, not simply their way of interacting with everyone. Your discomfort is a meaningful signal that your boundaries were crossed, regardless of the other person's intentions.

Physical symptoms like nausea and sleep difficulties can be manifestations of stress and anxiety following boundary violations. These reactions aren't unusual - they're your body's way of processing and responding to situations that feel threatening or unsafe.

It might be helpful to talk to someone you trust about what's been happening—a friend, family member, or someone in a position of authority whom you feel comfortable confiding in. They can offer support and help you consider any steps you'd like to take moving forward. During the months when you don't have to see this person, you might find it empowering to reflect on your boundaries and consider how you might want to respond if similar situations arise in the future. Some people find it helpful to practice direct statements like "Please don't touch me" or "I'm not comfortable with that." Others might prefer to create distance or ensure they're not alone with the person.

Remember that you deserve to feel safe and respected in all your interactions. Trusting your instincts about situations that make you uncomfortable is an important form of self-protection, not an overreaction. Take care of yourself, and know that your feelings matter.