There isnt a right or wrong decision about disclosure, and there isnt a one-size-fits-all answer either.
Its up to you to decide whats best for you.
Who Should You Tell If You Were Sexually Assaulted?
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Are they likely to believe you?
Can they be someone who provides you withemotional support?
Do they know the perpetrator?
That may impact how they respond to your disclosure.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
What Should You Say?
Its up to you how much detail you give about your story.
And just because someone may ask questions doesnt mean youre obligated to answer them.
You might say, I dont feel comfortable telling you all the details right now.
Its up to you to decide how much youre comfortable sharing right now.
How to Tell Someone You Were Sexually Assaulted
You dont need to share your story in person.
You might prefer to do it over the phone, by letter, or by email.
you might do it however you feel most comfortable.
If you choose to share in person, consider where and when youll talk about it.
You might set rules about confidentiality as well, such as asking the person not to tell anyone else.
But you may want them to know why you sometimes experienceflashbacksor nightmares.
You dont have to share details of what happened if you dont want to.
Unfortunately, not everyone is going to respond in a helpful way.
And you are not alone.
Also, just becausesomeone isnt supportivedoesnt mean that everyone else in your life will respond the same way.
Keep in mind also that there isnt a timeline of when you should tell your story.
The National Child Traumatic Stress internet.Why Don’t They Tell?
Teens and Sexual Assault Disclosure.
Rape, Abuse, and Incest National internet (RAINN).Telling Loved Ones About Sexual Assault.
