Need Help?
If It Happens To You:
 

If you are in danger, you can call the police. Dial 911 anywhere in the state.

Points to review:

- Call our Helpline at 1-800-871-7741 to get information to help you decide what to do next.
- You may have injuries, you are not immediately aware of. After an assault, it is important that you get medical attention. - The hospital can give medication for STI's and STD's, as well as, test for and prevent pregnancy.
- Talking to someone can help. Finding someone to listen to you can make a difference in how you feel. Talking can also make you feel less alone plus you could also pick up a few suggestions and assistance with working out your course of action.
- Focus on things that you enjoy or feel good doing, to build your confidence
- Write your feelings down, keep a journal, or write a letter that you don't have to send.
- Listen to music that has lyrics with upbeat positive re-enforcements
- Pay attention to and trust your feelings and gut instincts.
- Be proud of the way you've been able to be strong and persevere through the confusion, fear, and hurt.

Your Options:

-Getting medical attention within hours of an assault is very important-you may be in shock and have injuries you are not immediately aware of. In addition to treating injuries, hospitals can test for pregnancy and STI's or STD's. Some hospitals will give medication to prevent pregnancy. You also have a 72 hour window to be tested for the presence of date rape drugs, though sooner is better, as some drugs move through the system more quickly than others.

-If you choose to file a police report, you also have a 72 hour window in which to have sexual assault evidence collected at a hospital. This is your choice. If you have the slightest thought of reporting, its important to have evidence collected as soon as possible. After the evidence is collected, you can make a decision whether or not to file a police report of the assault.

-RCA&P Helpline Advocates are available to help you think through your options and to go to the hospital with you. They can explain procedures to you, help you communicate your needs to doctors and nurses, intervene on your behalf, and give you support during a difficult time.

Remember, evidence collection is your choice. However, whether or not you decide to file a report, getting medical attention is very important.
Help a Friend:
  
  How to Help a Survivor
- Educate yourself about sexual abuse/rape and the healing process
- Believe the survivor
- Validate the survivor's feelings: their anger, pain, and fear
- Encourage the survivor to get support
- Accept that there will very likely be major changes in your relationship with the survivor as they heal
- Respect the time and space it takes to heal
- Express your compassion
- Be clear that the abuse or rape was not the survivor's fault
- Don't sympathize with the abuser
- Get help if the survivor is suicidal
- Join with the survivor in validating the damage
- Resist seeing the survivor as a victim
- Take good care of your health and well being
Our toll-free, 24-hour Helpline is available for supporters, too!
1-800-871-7741
Children & Elderly:
  Please click here to read an article on supporting CHILDREN after they disclose sexual abuse.

If you would like more information, please call our office at (207) 872-0601or the HELPLINE at 1-800-871-7741.
Male Survivors:
  We have plans to begin a male survivors support group in 2008.  If you're interested in participating, please call our office.
 
 
Rape Crisis : Assistance and Prevention - Helpline : 1-800-871-7741