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
· Fear
“I’m constantly looking over my shoulder and jumping at every noise I hear”
During an assault many people fear for their lives. Being afraid of the possibility of pregnancy, STD's, running into the offender again, being alone or in the dark are all normal responses to trauma. Working with a counselor helps to understand and manage fearful feelings in a productive manner.
· Anxiety
“I’m so tense, I feel like going out of my mind”
Severe anxiety may manifest in physical symptoms such as difficulties in breathing, muscle tension, nausea, stomach cramps or headaches. Treatment will provide stress management techniques and address the underlining issues causing the stress.
· Hostility/Anger
“Why did this happened to me!”
Experiencing anger is a natural reaction in a process of recovery. Sometimes hostility is felt generally towards all members of the gender of the offender. These feelings indicate a new beginning of seeing the world in a different way, a way that places the blame of the assault with the perpetrator.
· Sexual Confidence
“I just don’t want to be touched by anyone”
Once sex is linked to feelings of aggression, hostility, derision, arrogance, force, domination, insensitivity and coldness it is hard to break away from these associations. It is important that the partner of someone who has been through an assault knows about the assault and allows the survivor to be in control of initiating any sexual activity. Creating a patient, caring, and supportive environment will help a loved one to slowly heal and re-create a healthy understanding of sexual intimacy.
Remember there is help, if you have been sexually assaulted please call 24hr Arizona Hotline:866-205-5229.
Reference: Feelings After Sexual Assault, South Eastern Centre Against
Sexual Assault is a service of Southern Health
Sexual Assault is a service of Southern Health
