What to do if you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted
Here are a few important things to remember:
No matter what, the sexual assault was not your fault
The responsibility of the assault falls on the offender, not the survivor
Your feelings, emotions, thoughts, and physical changes are common responses to a traumatic event
You may or may not experience trauma symptoms.
Sexual Assault/Abuse is a crime, you are a survivor of the crime. You have rights in Illinois.
You cannot consent to sexual activity while under the influence
A person under the age of 17 cannot consent to sexual activity
Recovery takes time.
What to do:
Seek a safe space: Your safety is important. Find a safe space where you feel comfortable and protected. Identify what you need to make you feel comfortable and safe. If you are not in a safe space, call 911.
Call a rape crisis center: All services are free and confidential. You can be offered medical advocacy, legal advocacy, counseling, and support on the 24/7 hotline
Seek medical care: Go to your local emergency room. Here you will be offered a medical exam and evidence collection kit. If you go to an ER, by law, an advocate from the local rape crisis center will be called out
Report to the police: Sexual assault/abuse is a crime. You can choose to report to the police, but you do not have to.