Supportive Suggestions After a Sexual Assault

  1. Receive this critical message: You are never to blame for this sexual assault. You are a survivor.
  2. Report your sexual assault to Riley County Police Department (RCPD) using any of the reporting options outlined in “Your Options. Your Control.”
  3. Preserve any physical evidence. Avoid showering/bathing and keep any clothing and/or bedding items until the police say it is okay.
  4. Travel to the nearest hospital emergency room or contact the local sexual assault nursing examination (SANE) services immediately for proper medical care. Consider asking a friend, family member, or counselor to accompany you.
  5. Lean on supportive people within your life, like friends, families, advocates, and counselors.
  6. Consider engaging services (like counseling) to cope with one or more trauma responses to sexual assault, like loss of trust/safety, PTSD symptoms, depression, challenges focusing at work/school, increased use of alcohol/drugs, heightened anxiety, shame/self-blame, or denial/avoidance. They are confidential, free, and supportive of your individual healing journey.