- Find a safe environment - anywhere away from the attacker.
- Ask a trusted friend stay with you for moral support.
- Preserve evidence of the attack - don't bathe or brush your teeth.
- Write down all the details you can recall about the attack & the attacker.
- Call the RENEW Hotline anytime at 565-2100 or The National Sexual Assault Hotline, operated by RAINN, for free, confidential counseling, 24 hours a day: 1-800-656-HOPE.
- Get medical attention. Even with no physical injuries, it is important to determine the risks of STDs and pregnancy.
- To preserve forensic evidence, ask the hospital to conduct a rape kit exam.
- If you suspect you may have been drugged, ask that a urine sample be collected. The sample will need to be analyzed later on by a forensic lab.
- Report the rape to law enforcement authorities. A counselor can provide the information you'll need understand the process.
- Remember IT WASN'T YOUR FAULT !
- Recognize that healing from rape takes time. Give yourself the time you need.
- Know that it's never too late to call. Even if the attack happened years ago, RENEW or the National Sexual Assault
- Hotline can still help. Many victims do not realize they need help
until months or years later.
How can I help a friend who has been sexually assaulted?
- Listen. Be there. Don't be judgmental.
- Encourage your friend to seriously consider reporting the rape to law enforcement authorities. A counselor can provide the information your friend will need to make this decision.
- Be patient. Remember, it will take your friend some time to deal with the crime.
- Let your friend know that professional help is available through RENEW or the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
- Encourage him or her to call the hotline, but realize
that only your friend can make the decision to get help.
