Sexual Assault Information

Adapted from http://www.calcasa.org/120.0.html

What to Do If You've Been Assaulted

Your immediate safety is first. Try to get to a safe place.

• Reach out for support. You deserve it. The
  JCSU Violence Prevention Coordinator is a great resource.
• Contact someone you trust, like a friend or a member of your family.
• Get medical attention as soon as possible. The Violence Prevention Coordinator can assist you with finding options. Medical care is important, in case you are injured and to protect against sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.

Sexual Assault is Not Your Fault

You have the right to...

• Be treated with respect, dignity and courtesy.
• File a police report and receive services, no matter what your relationship is to the assailant.
• Not be judged because of your race, age, class, gender, sexual orientation or occupation.
• Have a sexual assault counselor come with you to medical, law enforcement and legal proceedings.
• Privacy when meeting with a counselor or a police officer.
• Understand any forms you are asked to sign.
• Ask questions and get answers about any tests, exams, medications, treatments or police reports.
• Be told of any necessary follow-up care and testing.
• Voice complaints and expect to have them heard and accepted.

Common Reactions to Sexual Assault

As a survivor of sexual assault you may find yourself having some of the following feelings:

• Anger
• Fear
• Embarrassment
• Powerlessness
• Depression
• Self-blame and doubt
• Isolation
• Anxiety
• Denial
• Shame
• Suicidal thoughts

Remember: All of these feelings are normal after a sexual assault. Contact the JCSU Violence Prevention Coordinator for more information.

“This project was supported by Grant No. 2005-WA-AX-0009 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence.