Seeking Support

[Mel]

Article featured in Avatar - Volume 1, Issue 12 (May 2008).

Seeking Support
by St@rG@zer

I have been with TeenHelp under various user names since 2005, and I have been a member of TeenHelp's wonderful staff in the past. While being around I have noticed something about rape victims that I'd like to share. I would also like to raise awareness, raise confidence and offer support information for rape victims who use or are guests TeenHelp.

I have an older sister who was brutally and repeatedly raped by a street gang several years ago. Today, nearly four years after the event, she is still suffering the effects of this horrifying event of her past. It is globally estimated that 1 in 3 women have been raped, assaulted or sexually abused in some form. The National Center for Victims of Crime estimates that 84% of occurring sex crimes, such as rape, are never reported to law enforcement.

So what is it that drives rape victims to keep the horrifying truth a secret?

The first reason some rape victims keep the truth a secret is fear. Many rape victims are fearful of reporting the crime to the authorities because a rapist will often tell his victim never to tell, or that he will return. Victims of sexual crimes are often traumatized and may suffer Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which in turn forces the victim to remember the attacker as intimidating, powerful and demanding. As a result, it is not uncommon for a rape crime to remain unreported by the terrified and traumatized victim.

The second main reason a rape victim may not report the crime is out of shame. Many rape victims try to blame themselves for the attack, instead of blaming the rapist. Rape is never the fault of the victim! PLEASE, if you are a rape victim, DO NOT fall into this trap - it is not your fault!

What are some other aftermath thoughts or feelings a victim may experience?

While there are several different thoughts or feelings one may experience, here are some of the main things a victim may feel in addition to the above mentioned.

* Anxiety
* Additional fear
* Anger
* Depression
* Flashbacks
* Shock or disbelief
* Social withdrawal
* Nightmares or disturbed sleeping patters.

Please note that the severity or range of symptoms or feelings experienced may vary from person-to-person.

What should be done if you are a victim of any sexual crime?

Taking the right steps after such a horrifying event may be the furthest thing from simplicity as anything can get. While doing something may be extremely difficult, do know that it is equally important.

So, which steps should you take? The first most important step to take would be to report to the police about what has happened. Doing this would insure that the person who did this to you will not be able to harm you again, it would also insure that they never do this to any other person.

The second step to take would be to make a trip to the hospital. Doing that would allow doctors to examine you, to make sure that you're physically okay and collect any evidence if you wish to press charges against your offender.

The last step, but certainly not least important step, would be to reach out for help on this. You are not alone! Whether you talk to a close family member about this, a teacher, doctor or counselor, asking for help is very important for recovery. If you would rather not talk to someone in person, calling a crisis line is always an available option. Online support forums are also fine, but please do note that members on most boards are NOT professionals.

Please check out TeenHelp's hotlines or resources for further support.