What’s love got to do with it?
Nothing. There is not love involved; sexual assault is an act of power, force and control.
What is it?
Sexual assault is any forced sexual activity that is against the person’s will. The force comes in many forms: Physical, mental and emotional coercion and/or manipulation. Sexual assault is a term that encompasses many crimes against women including ( But not limited to) date rape, rape, dating violence and battering.
Why Me?
It is not you fault. Anyone can be a victim. A woman can be raped regardless of her age, appearance and behaviors. Women who are ninety years old and even infants are raped. You are not responsible for the behavior of an attacker merely because of what you wear, where you are, what time you are out or who you are with.
What is happening to me?
When confronted with sexual assault, it is normal for the victim to experience fear, anxiety and helplessness. This is an understandable reaction under the circumstances, and a victim should never be condemned for having suffered this common reaction. This unexpected flood of emotions and fear is a normal outcome of the assault and can reoccur over time. Sometimes a victim may experience “flashbacks” years after the attack. For your emotional health, you may want to consider talking with a professional counselor you work through your anxieties.
Who did this to me?
You could have been attacked by a stranger, a date, a friend, a neighbor, a relative or even your husband. Attackers can come from all areas of society regardless of age, race, appearance or social standing. More than likely the person who attacked you will be someone you know. Statistics show that in nearly 80% of the cases the victim knew her assailant. Most attackers do not fit any particular pattern; therefore, if you know your attacker, it does not make you a poor judge of character.
” Sometimes a victim may experience “flashbacks” years after the attack”
IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT
What is the next step?
After a sexual assault you may be unsure what to do next. It is important for you to feel safe and secure. Your safety and health are priorities. Call 911 for assistance or go directly to an emergency medical facility. Ask to have a rape crisis counselor meet you. It is important that you seek medical attention to check for STD’s, internal attention to check for STD’s, internal physical injuries or pregnancy. THis should be done whether or not you plan to file a criminal complaint against your attacker-it is for your health.
In spite of the fact athat you feel like bathing, don’t clean up before going to the doctor. Preserve all physical evidence, Do not shower, bathe, or douche. Save the clothing you were wearing at the time of the assault. Do not disturb anything in the area where the assault occurred.
If you would like the emotional support of a friend or relative, it’s ok to call someone. the rape crisis counselor can help your friend or family member understand what is happening too.
Seek the counseling and information of the Hyde County Hotline. The aftermath of the assault can be a difficult readjustment and grieving period for you and your family and friends. Hotline can help with information, referrals for therapy or other needed services, accompaniment through the court proceddings, and support during the healing process.
What does Hotline off the sexual assault victim
Following a sexual assault, a rape crisis counselor provides:
- Response to medical or law enforcement facilities to provide emotional support and information for the victim..
- Referral for appropriate counseling and victim services.
- Support and advocacy as the sexual assault survivor makes decisions regarding options available through the court.
“If the world seems cold to you, kindle the fires to warm it”
~Lucy Larcom
Warmth can be found in the support of friends, family and caring professionals.
IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT!
Do not remain a silent victim.
For information or assistance….
reach out!
Hyde County Hotline
252-925-2500
Hyde County Hotline, Inc,
A private, non-profit organization in Hyde County, NC dedicated to promoting dignity, respect and safety at home resulting in safer communites.