What to Do After Experiencing Sexual Assault
If you’ve experienced sexual assault, it can be overwhelming to know what to do next. Processing such a traumatic experience is deeply personal, and there is no “right” way to move forward. Healing takes time and is different for everyone. This guide is designed to offer support and information to help you regain control, prioritize your well-being, and know that you are not alone.
Prioritize Your Safety
Immediately after the assault, focusing on your physical safety is essential. If you’re in a place or situation that feels unsafe, consider going to a trusted friend’s home, a family member’s house, or even a public space where you feel secure. Trust your instincts and give yourself time to feel protected.
Seek Immediate Medical Care (If You Choose)
After an assault, you may want to seek medical attention for injuries, preventive care, or a medical forensic exam. You can go to a hospital or clinic, where a healthcare professional can provide necessary medical care and discuss options, such as testing for STIs, HIV prevention, pregnancy prevention, and documenting evidence through a sexual assault exam. This exam can be conducted even if you don’t intend to report the assault immediately. Hospitals have trained professionals, often called Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs), who can guide you through the process with care and respect.
Preserve Evidence (If Possible)
If you’re considering reporting the assault, preserving evidence might be a priority. Here are some ways to do so:
Avoid bathing or changing clothes, if possible. If you do change, place the clothing you were wearing in a paper bag (not plastic).
Try not to clean up the scene where the assault took place.
Document injuries by taking photographs or writing down details about what happened. This can be difficult, so ask a trusted person to help if needed.
Evidence preservation can feel invasive and might not be suitable for everyone. It’s okay if this isn’t something you’re comfortable with. There is no wrong way to process or handle your experience.
Consider Reporting the Assault (If and When You’re Ready)
Reporting is a personal decision, and you’re not obligated to decide right away or at all. If you choose to report the assault, various options are available, including:
Reporting to the police: This can initiate an investigation and may involve providing a statement and evidence if available.
Speaking to your school or workplace: Many institutions have policies and resources to support survivors.
Reaching out to advocacy organizations: Many organizations provide guidance on reporting options and can connect you with legal support if needed.
The decision to report is entirely up to you and should be based on what feels right for you.
Reach Out for Emotional Support
The aftermath of an assault can be isolating, but connecting with others can be incredibly healing. Consider speaking with:
Friends or family members: Confiding in someone you trust can offer immediate support.
Counselors or therapists: Mental health professionals trained in trauma can guide you through processing and healing. Therapists offer a safe space to talk openly, free from judgment.
Advocacy organizations: Many communities have sexual assault centers, hotlines, and support groups. These organizations can provide counselling, resources, and safe spaces to connect with others who understand.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Sexual assault can leave emotional and psychological impacts that may last long after the event. Remember that any feelings you’re experiencing are valid, whether they’re sadness, anger, guilt, numbness, or confusion. Healing takes time, and self-compassion is essential.
Some strategies to support your mental health include:
Practicing self-care: This could mean taking time for activities that make you feel calm and grounded, whether it’s journaling, engaging in a hobby, spending time in nature, or simply resting.
Connecting with support groups: Many survivors find comfort and understanding in support groups where they can share their experiences with people who have gone through similar situations.
Setting boundaries: It’s okay to take a step back from social media, relationships, or situations that feel overwhelming. Boundaries are a form of self-care and can help you feel safer and more in control.
Understand That Healing Is a Journey
The path to healing isn’t linear. There may be ups and downs, and that’s completely normal. Some days may feel lighter, while others are more difficult, but every step you take is part of your journey toward reclaiming your power and peace. You are not defined by what happened to you, and healing doesn’t mean “getting over” the experience but finding a place for it in your life where it doesn’t overshadow your future.
