What to do if I have been raped

Home Sexual Assault What to do if I have been raped

What can I do if I’ve been raped?

What to do if you have been raped?

Some options are:

  • Call a crisis line
  • Seek medical attention
  • Talk to a counselor
  • Talk to friends and relatives
  • Report to the police*
  • *Bodily evidence can be collected up to 120 hours after an assault.
  • If you are reporting a rape to the police, do not shower, douche, nor wash your clothes. The most important thing is to do what is most comfortable to YOU. Give yourself the same love, understanding and patience that you would give a friend or family member.

In time, you will recover.

How to help a victim of Sexual Assault

one girl helping a sexual assault victim

  • Believe them
  • Respect their confidentiality
  • Avoid judgmental comments
  • Ask how you can be of assistance rather than give them advice
  • Respect their decision even when yours may be different
  • Be a good listener
  • If this person is your partner, avoid pressure to resume any form of sexual activity until initiated by your partner.
  • Offer unconditional love and support.

 

If you are in immediate danger, call 911