Counselors with RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National connection) are available to chat 24/7.
Rape andsexual assaultare traumatic, life-altering experiences that should never be minimized or dismissed.
Here’s what to do if you or someone you know has been raped.
iStockphoto
Trigger Warning:This article contains information about sexual violence and rape that may be triggering for some survivors.
Here are some things to do right away.
Go Someplace Safe
Safety is your first priority.
Online support is amazing, and there’s a lot of it for people with IBD. But sometimes you need a hug.Image © Tom Merton / Caiaimage / Getty Images
If you feel you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Next, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673).
They can walk you through the process of getting help.
Tashdique Mehtaj Ahmed / Getty Images
Keeping evidence intact helps investigators prosecute your case.
They’ll test you for sexually transmitted diseases and provide post-exposure prophylactics to help prevent HIV.
They can also provide emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy if so desired.
It is 100% your decision.
Some survivors say that filing a report helped themregain a sense of controlover their lives.
If you do decide to report what happened, consider taking a friend or relative with you for support.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
But these things do not have to be the reality for you.
To find healthy ways of coping with what happened, reach out for help.
The key is to find what works for you.
Here are are a few ideas.
Along with healing from any injuries, be sure you are eating right, exercising, andgetting enough sleep.
If you are having trouble sleeping or are experiencing nightmares, talk to a healthcare provider.
They may be able to prescribe something to help you sleep and offer suggestions for dealing withnightmaresand flashbacks.
In addition to caring for yourself physically, take care of yourself emotionally.
Some people find journaling,meditation, and inspirational books helpful.
Others enjoy hanging out with friends or watching movies.
Read reviews beforehand so you could avoid movies and tv shows that feature things that aretriggeringfor you.
They offer non-judgmental spaces where you could talk about and work through the challenges and emotions you are experiencing.
Find out which option is the best for you.
Therapy also is useful if you are experiencing depression or having thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
A counselor or psychotherapist can provide treatment for these conditions.
For therapy to be effective, you must be comfortable and open with your therapist.
Whenselecting a therapist, confirm the person is experienced in helping victims of sexual assault and rape.
Interview a few therapists or even have a few sessions before deciding on a long-term plan.
No matter how difficult life may feel right now, there is hope.
You are not to blame; nothing you did caused this to happen.
The person who assaulted you made their own choice.
More importantly, people are available who are specially trained to help with your situation.
Reaching out to them and accepting their help is an act of courage that thousands do every day.
With patience, help, and persistence, you might heal and move on with your life.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Sexual violence is preventable.
Updated January 8, 2020.
Rape Abuse and Incest National web link.Reporting to law enforcement.
