Sexual abuse is one of the worst events anyone can experience. Not only can the act itself be violent, but it can be emotionally and mentally traumatic. As overwhelming as this is, the steps you or any sexual abuse victim should take directly afterward are vital.
Let’s dive into exactly what needs to be done so justice can be served, and so you can begin the healing process after this traumatic event.
What is Sexual Abuse?
Firstly, let’s look at what sexual abuse is in the first place. Many crimes that fall under this umbrella term are obvious, with sexual assault and rape being the most obvious. Crimes that also fall into this category include sodomy and incest.
These can occur once or multiple times over a prolonged period, causing more and more trauma. This type of abuse is best described as any sexual behavior forced upon someone against their will or without their consent.
Most sexual abuse victims are women and children, although men have reported being victims of these crimes, too. No matter how much victims try to prevent it, either proactively or in the moment, it’s still an unfortunate and traumatic event for countless people.
The behavior is unfortunately prevalent in many societies, but many victims of these crimes don’t know what they should do immediately afterward. Certain steps are vital for getting justice and starting the healing process.
Steps Sexual Abuse Victims Need to Take
Ensure Safety
Getting to safety should be the immediate concern in the wake of a sexual assault or abuse. It is recommended to be far away from the scene of a crime. Public places, a friend or family member’s house, and even the local police station come to mind with this. No matter where you go, make sure you’re safe there.
Once emergency services are called, they’ll dispatch police and medical professionals to your location. Put safety first and then contact them.
Seek Medical Attention
Medical attention is usually needed in the wake of sexual abuse, especially when it involves violence. Getting to the hospital is a vital part of this. When there, you’ll receive treatment for any wounds received during the course of the crime.
A forensic exam will be a part of this when you’re reporting the crime. Often called a ‘rape kit,’ this is where evidence of the crime is collected and should best be done within 72 hours of the crime itself.
Preserve the Evidence
All sexual abuse victims deserve to get justice for the traumatic event they’ve been through. For perpetrators to be prosecuted, however, there needs to be evidence of the crime. Victim testimony, unfortunately, often isn’t enough. Preserving the evidence of the crime is a vital step to take.
A lot of this evidence is found on a victim’s body and clothes. Avoid showering, bathing, and changing or cleaning clothes in the aftermath of the crime. When getting medical attention, the evidence can be collected and properly preserved. Once this has been done, victims can properly clean themselves.
Seek Support
Sexual abuse is a traumatic event for anyone to go through. Support is vital to the recovery process, and it’s best to start to get this as early as possible. Trusted friends and family members are a start, but there are also counselors, therapists, and other professionals who offer personalized and professional help.
This support will be ongoing, with qualified professionals being the best people to get this support from. Many specialize in helping sexual assault victims start to emotionally and mentally recover from the traumatic impact of the crime.
File a Report
Filing a report with the appropriate authorities is the first step in getting justice. Going to the local police department, or contacting them over the phone, starts this process. Once you do, they’ll walk you through the exact steps that need to be done.
They’ll take a statement, fill out some forms, and start investigating the crime. No matter how long it’s been since the abuse, you’re allowed to file a report, but the sooner you do, the better. Not only does it make sure the case is investigated, but it wouldn’t fall outside of the statute of limitations.
Get Legal Advice
Speaking to a legal professional is always a recommended step for sexual abuse victims. They provide you with specialized insights into what’ll happen with your case. This starts with a sexual abuse case evaluation to determine the likely outcome of reporting your case.
An experienced sexual abuse attorney will also talk you through your rights and what your options are going forward. This doesn’t just apply to criminal cases, but can occasionally include civil charges and cases.
In Conclusion
Sexual abuse victims experience untold trauma as a result of the abuse they suffered. To get justice, several steps need to be taken immediately afterward. As traumatic as the event itself is, these steps shouldn’t be overlooked. They’ll help a victim get on the path to recovery and get the justice they deserve.
