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We say if it ever happened to us, we would act differently. But the truth is until you are in that situation yourself and you’re forced to make a decision that could alter your life in huge ways, you really don’t know how you will act.
– Survivor5
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I was not sure what the next move was. I didn’t think there was a next move.
– Survivor6
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There was no-one I felt I could turn to.
– Survivor7
Navigate your options
You might be feeling conflicted about disclosing and reporting sexual assault. Confusion, self-blame1 or simply have no idea where to begin. Losing control can be particularly daunting after sexual assault where lack of control and helplessness is central to the experience.2 Sexual assault also impacts our sense of safety and trust which too makes it difficult to confide in others.3 Evaluating your goals, concerns and options can be a helpful step towards reclaiming control and understanding what’s the best route for you.
Identify Your Goals and Concerns
Explore common goals and concerns survivors have when it comes moving forward with different options, and access resources to address concerns.
Evaluate Your Options
Learn about different options that could be available to you such as seeking support or reporting, and how they can help to meet your goals.
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Afraid of being exposed, dying to be seen — there’s a dilemma for you.
– Philip Roth, The Human Stain (American author)4
Sources:
1. Kilpatrick, D., Resnick, H., Ruggiero, K.; Conoscenti, L. & McCauley, J. (2007). Drug-facilitated, Incapacitated, and Forcible Rape: A National Study. The U.S. Department of Justice. https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/219181.pdf
2. Control Issues. (2020). Good Therapy. https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/issues/control-issues
3. Recovering from Rape and Sexual Trauma. (2020). Helpguide. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/ptsd-trauma/recovering-from-rape-and-sexual-trauma.htm
4. Roth, P. (2000). The Human Stain. Houghton Mifflin.
5. Lovejoy, J. (4 April 2019). Why I Want to Share My Story of Sexual Abuse. Scribe. https://medium.com/scribe/why-i-want-to-share-my-story-of-sexual-harassment-1a07f1afc70d
6. Matis, A. (3 May 2012). A Hiker’s Guide to Healing. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/06/fashion/a-hikers-guide-to-healing.html
7. Price, H. (6 March 2018). ‘I was raped as a student – and I’m not the only one.’ BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-432581702