April 21, 2004

East Lansing - This month, during "Sexual Assault Awareness Month," the Michigan State Police is seeking to educate citizens regarding sexual assault and personal protection.

Statistics show that one in three women will be raped in their lifetime. It is likely that either you or someone you know has already been affected by sexual assault.

There are steps you can take if you have been a victim of sexual assault. Often these steps can help to regain your sense of control and facilitate the healing process.

1. Tell someone. Go to a safe place where people can give you emotional support. Report the crime to the police.
2. Go to a hospital. See a doctor immediately for treatment of any injuries and for other tests that can provide important medical evidence. Don’t bathe, shower, douche or change clothes before seeing the doctor.
3. Seek counseling. A professional can help you regain trust, support and faith in your own judgment that the incident may have damaged.
4. Remember you are not alone. Your local rape crisis center, hospital, attorney or therapist can put you in touch with a peer group. Talking to others in a similar situation can be a tremendous support.

Sexual assault is a violent and intrusive act and many people feel the effects years after an attack. Some indications that you may still be having difficulty moving past a sexual assault include:

• Continued anxiety
• Continued helplessness
• Sleep difficulties
• Social withdrawal
• Reluctance to leave the house
• Difficulty forming intimate relationships
• Sexual dysfunction
• Crying spells and/or anxiety attacks

If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms and you suspect it may be related to a past sexual assault, you should seek help.

The Rape Abuse and Incest National Network is available 24-hours a day anywhere in the U.S. at 1-800-656-HOPE. This network provides confidential counseling and support for survivors of sexual assault.

Throughout the month, various community groups will be out in full-force seeking to educate the public about sexual assault. For a list of events in your area, please contact your local State Police post.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Sgt. Michele Hernandez, Prevention Services Section, (517) 336-6603