Staying Safe— Before and After Sexual Assault

by Linda Herbert, LMHC

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month throughout the United States. This is a good time to talk about prevention and to support survivors of sexual violence.

Sexual assault happens to males and females alike but women are most often victimized by these crimes. In the United States, it is estimated that one of every three women will experience a sexual assault during her lifetime. Women between 15 and 22 are at highest risk.

Prevention

While sexual assault is never the victim’s fault, you can take preventive measures to stay as safe as possible: 

• Listen to your feelings. This is the most important safety rule. If you are in a situation where you are anxious or afraid--or something just doesn’t feel right--get away and ask for help.

• Don’t be misled by the fact that you know the other person:  85% of sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows and trusts.  People may be assaulted by their spouses, paramours, dates and friends. 

• Watch your drinks. When dating or attending a party, stay sober and set clear limits regarding what you want. Pour your own drink or watch while someone else pours it, then keep the drink within sight at all times.  Date rape drugs are odorless and tasteless, and they will make you completely helpless within a few minutes.

• Be wary of strangers. They account for about 10-15% of sexual assaults.

• Don’t look vulnerable. Rapists look for easy targets. Try to have someone with you when you are out walking.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Before leaving a building and walking to your car, have your keys in your hand and scan the driveway or parking lot.

• Keep a safe distance if a stranger asks for directions or other forms of help.

• Lock your doors and windows at home, when you are in your car and when you leave your car.

• Never open the door to someone you don’t know.

Recovery

It is important to remember that you can take every possible precaution and still be victimized. Staying safe after sexual assault is as important as prevention. The first step is to tell someone you trust. Ask for help. You have experienced a violation of your body and spirit. It was NOT YOUR FAULT. You deserve the treatment you need to recover. Stay away from people who blame you for the assault, and keep talking about it with people who will listen. 

Emotional recovery is important, but don’t overlook your physical health. Be sure to get treatment for any injuries and get tested for pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.

If you are a victim of sexual assault, you can receive free, confidential support around the clock from Manatee Glens Rape Crisis Services. Call 941-708-6059 at any time to speak to a victim advocate.

Linda Herbert is keynote speaker on Thursday, April 6, 2006 at Bradenton City Center, 1005 Barcarrota Boulevard, Bradenton, when Manatee Glens presents a rally, “Strengthening Communities: Ending Sexual Violence.” The program, an observance of national Sexual Assault Awareness Day, runs from noon to 1 p.m. and is free to the public. It includes comments and displays by victims of sexual assault including their art, essays and painted jeans. Those receiving support at Manatee Glens Rape Crisis Services are creating survivor quilts for the occasion. One young woman, the victim of a home invasion and rape, wrote on her quilt square, “What happened to you was wrong…You are right!!  You are a Survivor, and you are not alone.  Free your heart from the evil that is not yours… from the pain that you never deserved.  Talk About It!  Reclaim your POWER.  You can do it…I am everyday.”