Recovering from Sexual Assault

Being assaulted is not your fault. If you have been assaulted, get help from someone who you trust, whether it is the police, a friend, a rape crisis center or a relative. Don't isolate yourself because you have no reason to feel guilty, and, most importantly, don't try to ignore it. Rape, even by someone you know, is a crime and a violation of your body and your trust. Counseling and support groups can be helpful to deal with the emotional trauma caused by rape.

How to be supportive in the wake of an assault

"My sister was raped by a family friend, but I am not sure whether I should believe her…"
Whether it's you or someone you know, the effects of rape can be widespread and have the ability to affect groups of people, not only the victim. If someone you know is raped…

• Believe the person.
• Offer comfort and support. Go with him or her to the hospital, police station, or counseling center.
• Let him or her know they are not to blame and they are not alone.
• Encourage him or her to report the crime.

"I am strong, I am a survivor…how do I fight back to make sure this doesn't happen again?"
Taking a stand against rape can be one of the best things you can do to help yourself or anyone else you know that could possibly become a victim of this crime.

• Ask your student government or a parent group to sponsor a workshop on date rape and sexual stereotyping for students. Work with a hotline or crisis center to persuade rape survivors to join the workshop.
• Volunteer at a rape crisis center or hotline.
• Monitor the media for programs or videos that reinforce sexual stereotypes. Write or call to protest. On the other side, publicly commend the media when they highlight the realities of date rape.
• Ask college or professional athletes or other role models to talk to high school students about sexual stereotyping and responsible behavior.