RAPE & SEXUAL ASSAULT

Rape can be very scary, and usually is. In most cases rape occurs out of the blue, and the victim does not know his/her attacker. Although, spousal rape is common. Women/girls in a relationship usually are a victim of domestic violence or stalking.

Statistics:

• College-age women are 4 times more likely to be sexually assaulted.
• Every 2.5 minutes, another American is sexually assaulted.
• 1 in 6 women and 1 in 33 men will be or have been sexually assaulted.
• 44% of sexual assault victims are under 18.
• 80% are under 30.

How to reduce your risk of being sexually assaulted:

Rape is never the victims fault. But their are ways you can prevent being raped.

• Travel in packs. When you go out, go in groups. Check in with each other and leave together. Don't be isolated with someone you don't know.
• Trust your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable, it probably is.
• Don't feel obligated to do anything you don't want to. "I don't want to." is always a good enough answer.
• Watch your drink. Pay attention when your drink is being prepared. Don't set your drink down and don't take drinks from someone you don't know and trust.
• Keep your cell phone with you at all times for quick 911 access.
  Email voicesagainstviolence@yahoo.com to find out how to program your cell phone for 1-touch 911 dialing.

What to do if you are sexually assaulted:

• Know the assault is not your fault and you are not alone.
• Know there are people who can help and protect you.
• Do not wash your body or clothes before getting a rape kit.
• Go to the emergency room and test for STD's and pregnancy. Demand a rape kit (rape kits can get DNA from your attacker to prove they raped you.)
• Tell the hospital if you think you have been drugged.
• Preserve evidence.
• Find a safe place away from your attacker. Ask a trusted friend to stay with you.

Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline if you have been raped.
800.656.HOPE (4673)

HELP A FRIEND:

Never tell a friend that has trusted you enough to tell them they have been raped that it is their fault. Never judge them or not believe them. If they say its rape, its rape. Violence is in the eye of the victim!

Always expect a range of emotions from someone that has been raped. This includes lack of emotion and shock.

Allow them to move through the healing process at his/her own pace.

Encourage medical attention and rape kits.

Be a friend, not a bystander. Get involved if you see someone at risk. You might save a friend from becoming a victim of rape and sexual assault.