Many rape victims try to cope with their pain alone.
Rape is an unfortunate reality in today's society. The stigma surrounding the crime and the erroneous act of blaming the victim in some cases makes rape very difficult to deal with. After a crisis such as this, the victim of rape needs support and protection. Although there may be little you can offer directly, you can still guide the individual in the right direction and ensure that she gets proper help.
Definition
Rape is any kind of forced sexual contact. It is not limited to actual intercourse. Any kind of unwanted interaction that feels sexual in nature is considered rape. Date rape is another form of rape in which the victims are raped by someone close to them, such as a friend or partner. Date rape drugs are often used to sedate the individuals so that they cannot resist or even remember the incident. Both males and females are vulnerable to rape, and it is equally traumatic.
Pyschological Help
If you know someone has been raped, it is critical that you reassure her. Specifically, explain to her that the incident is not her fault. Keep in mind that unless you are a professional, you should never try to act like a therapist. Instead, refer the victim to a rape counselor. These people can help her sort out her emotions and begin the healing process.
Medical and Legal Help
Take the victim to a hospital as soon as possible. Make sure that she does not bathe, change or clean herself in any way, as this can eliminate biological evidence left by the attacker. Also, ensure that she promptly reports the incident to the police. Once the police are aware of the rape, they can use evidence collected to try and locate the attacker. Although these are all things that the victim could do on her own, having someone there to protect and help her may alleviate some of the stress.
Aftermath
The effects of rape can last indefinitely. If you have helped a rape victim immediately after the incident, or learned about it through her later, do not tell anyone. If she wants people to know, she will open up about it herself. Thousands of rapes go unreported because the victim is afraid that others will find out. The best thing you can do is simply be there for support and let the healing process run its course.
Defense
There is no guarantee that you will have someone to immediately protect you during or after a rape. Remember that in this case, you have the right to defend yourself. If you think you are being followed or targeted, get somewhere public immediately. If you are attacked, scream and make as much noise as possible. Even if nobody is within earshot, the noise alone may deter the attacker.
Tags: Date rape, ensure that, healing process, victim rape