Arizona Sexual Assault Network
501 (C) 3 nonprofit operating in partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Violence Against Women.
1611 E. Warner Rd. Suite 4 Tempe, AZ 85284
Phone: 602-299-1251
501 (C) 3 nonprofit operating in partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Violence Against Women.
1611 E. Warner Rd. Suite 4 Tempe, AZ 85284
Phone: 602-299-1251
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ARIZONA SEXUAL ASSAULT NETWORK
Inspire someone to seek help by
anonymously sharing your personal
experience surviving sexual assault.
Read Survivor Stories...
“Reducing the Threat of Sexual Violence”
Q&A’s
I’ve been assaulted what do I do?
How can I help someone who has been assaulted?
What feelings are associated with healing?
Why would someone commit sexual assault?
What is sexual offense by law in Arizona?
What are my responsibilities as a parent?
EDUCATION
MORE INFORMATION
This process involves photographs, mouth, anal and vaginal swabs, hair combing and/or pulling (the nurse will let you pull hairs out yourself if you ask), collection of clothes and underwear, fingernail scrapings and/or clippings, drawing blood and a pelvic exam (if female). Treatment for injuries, S.T.I’s (sexually transmitted infections) and pregnancy (if female) is also included. If you are female, you have access to the morning after pill to prevent pregnancy. It normally takes between 2-5 hours at the hospital and the exam lasts about an hour and half.
4) Decide whether to file charges
Talking to the police right away is the best way to make sure you do not forget any of the details that may help your case. Filing a report does not mean you have to prosecute. If you do wish to prosecute contact an attorney right away to learn what your options are.
5) Check Assistance from the Victim Compensation Fund
What happens if you have emergency bills, need help finding a counselor, or have to take time off from work to recover? Check out http://www.nacvcb.org/index.html to see what type of assistance is available. In order to qualify for this assistance a report to the police must be made. Claims for assistance may be filed up to 5 years after the incident of a reported assault.
6) Seek Counseling
You should not attempt to go through recovery alone. Facing the aftermath of sexual assault is a potentially dangerous process. After rape other disorders may develop like P.T.S.D (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), eating disorders, and thoughts of suicide. There is help. No one deserves to have their body and dignity as a human being violated no matter what the circumstances, it is not your fault. You are not responsible for another person’s actions and you are not alone. Please seek help from professionals who are trained to help you cope and face what has happened. Healing is difficult and a long process. There may be times when you feel worse than just after the assault, but things will get better. In time with proper treatment you will be able to move on with your life in a way that is positive and with more strength than you may imagine right now.
Instead of having this event haunt you and the relationships you make in the future you can turn it into a source of empowerment for yourself and those you care about.
References: The National Women’s Health Information Center and National Association of Crime Victims Compensation Board.
