Take steps right away if you have been sexually assaulted.

• Get to a safe place, away from the attacker.
• If you want to report the assault, call 911 or the police.
• Call a friend or family member you trust.
• Do not wash, comb, or clean any part of your body. Do not change clothes if possible, so hospital staff can collect evidence. Do not touch or change anything at the scene of the assault.
• Go to the nearest hospital emergency room as soon as possible. You need to be examined, treated for any injuries, and screened for possible sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or pregnancy. The doctor will collect evidence using a rape kit for fibers, hairs, saliva, semen, or clothing that the attacker may have left behind.
• You or hospital staff can call the police from the emergency room to file a report.
• If you suspect you may have been drugged, ask that a urine and/or a blood sample be collected and tested.
• Remember that it is NOT your fault.
• Recognize that healing takes time.
• Know that it is NEVER too late to call.

Sexual assault, no matter when it happens can change your life. It can change your view of yourself and of others. You may experience changes in your eating and sleeping patterns. You may have nightmares or flashbacks about the assault or rape. Certain sounds, smells, or experiences may trigger these feelings and fears. You may be afraid of being alone, or you may fear being in crowds.

Maybe you were abused by someone you knew (a family member, spouse, co-worker, friend). Maybe you were assaulted by a stranger. As time passes, you may have a variety of feelings, thoughts, and reactions to what has happened, this is common for sexual assault survivors.

Whatever the circumstances, whatever your reactions or fears may be, support and help are available for you, no matter how long it has been. Advocates at your local sexual assault program can help you.

You can help someone who is abused or who has been assaulted by listening and offering comfort.

Go with her or him to the police, the hospital, or to counseling.

Reinforce the message that she or he is not at fault and that it is natural to feel angry and ashamed.

*For more information contact your local sexual assault agency.