What Should I Do?
If sexual assault happens to you, it is not your fault. And you are not alone. An advocate is available to talk with you 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 802 775-3232 .
Here are steps to take:
- Find a safe environment. Ask a friend to stay with you for support.
- Call an advocate for information and support.
- If you feel comfortable doing so, call the police and report the rape or other incident.
- Preserve evidence of the attack in a paper bag.
- Do not bathe or brush your teeth.
- Write down all the details you can remember about what happened.
- Go to the hospital and get examined for any needed medical attention.
- Go to the hospital for a rape kit exam. Even if you are not planning to report the attack, you can still get the exam and get tested for STDs and pregnancy.
- Recognize that healing from this traumatic assault can take time. Give yourself the time and care you need.
- Seek counseling and ongoing support.