What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault is any type of sexual activity that is unwanted, by someone to whom you have not given your consent. A sexual assault may include the use of physical force, threats, or intimidation. Sexual assault is a crime.
There is so much confusion and uncertainty left after an assault. The following information may help those who have been victims of sexual assault and the people close to them to understand the complexity of the situation.
Links to Videos:
Anti-sexual Violence Message From The Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault
Male Survivor of Sexual Assault Music Video by The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape.
Gonna Make It Music Video by The Pennsylvania Coaliton Against Rape. Emmy award winning music video empowering teen surviors of sexual assualt.
Online Sexual Predators From ABC 20/20 News Website. "Is he dating you to get to your child?"
Preying in the Church From ABC 20/20 News Website. Sex attack caught on tape
Why Me? The question, "Why me?" is completely normal to ask yourself. You may also be the friend or family member of a victim of sexual assault and be asking, "Why?" Sexual assault has no boundaries. It happens to men, women and children of all ages, races and backgrounds. Sexual assault does not happen because of what someone does or says, or how they dress, nor where they are geographically located. Be assured, you are not alone!!
What Now?
Whether it just happened, or the assault was some time ago, you have choices to gain back control.
What to Do If You've Been Assaulted
- Your immediate safety is first. Try to go to a safe place.
- Reach out for support.
- Call your local crisis center.
- Call someone you trust, like a friend or a member of your family.
- Get medical attention as soon as possible. Your local crisis center can assist you with finding options. Medical care is important, in case you are injured and to protect against sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.
Sexual Assault is Not Your Fault
You have the right to...
- Be treated with respect, dignity and courtesy.
- File a police report and receive services, no matter what your relationship is to the assailant.
- Not be judged because of your race, age, class, gender, sexual orientation or occupation.
- Have an advocate come with you to medical, law enforcement and legal proceedings.
- Privacy when meeting with an advocate or a police officer.
- Understand any forms you are asked to sign.
- Ask questions and get answers about any tests, exams, medications, treatments or police reports.
- Be told of any necessary follow-up care and testing.
- Voice complaints and expect to have them heard and accepted.
If you want to file a police report
It is recommended that you not shower or change clothes before going to the exam. If forced oral sex occurred, try not to drink, smoke, rinse your mouth out or gargle, or eat. Even if you have already done any of these things, there may still be the chance to get evidence for your case. This should not stop you if you want to file a police report.
You may call a friend, family member or the police to take you to the emergency room. You may want to call your local crisis center to ask about how assaults are handled in your area.
The medical exam is an important part of the evidence collection needed to file a police report. It is important to have the exam as soon as possible, and within 72 hours of the assault.
You have the right to have an advocate come with you to any medical care and police or legal proceedings.
If you file a police report you can write down the officer's badge number and the case number.
Reporting to the police is your choice. If you decide not to go to the police right away, write down everything you remember about what happened and save it in case you change your mind.
Reactions to Sexual Assault
As a survivor of sexual assault you may find yourself having some of the following feelings:
- Anger
- Fear
- Embarrassment
- Powerlessness
- Depression
- Self-blame and doubt
- Isolation
- Anxiety
- Denial
- Shame
- Suicidal thoughts
These feelings are natural.
You are not to blame for what happened. You are alive, you are a survivor and now is the time to begin the process of recovery. Reaching out for support is part of the healing process.
