Sexual Assault or Rape

SEXUAL ABUSE

Trained counselors are available twenty-four hours a day for free.  If you are being touched or approached sexually by a family member (incest), adult friends, or someone else, and it makes you uncomfortable, unhappy, or confused, talk with someone about the situation.  It is never your fault.  Don’t blame yourself.

· Department of Children & Families
24 hour hotline                                       800-842-2288
· Sexual Assault Crisis Center
24 hour hotline                                       203-731-5204
· Susan B. Anthony Women’s Center                   860-482-7133
· Women’s Center                                              203-731-5200
· Youth Hotline                                                   860-354-0047
ACQUAINTANCE/DATE RAPE

Have you ever said no, but your date wouldn’t stop?  Or have you ever felt/been forced to have sexual intercourse with someone you know?  If so, you are a victim of date rape.  Two out of three rapes occur in what could be called social situations.  It’s not always strangers who catch you off guard.  In fact, rape by acquaintances is more common than rape by strangers.  Whether a friend or stranger, no one has the right to violate your body.  No one has the right to use force or threats to get your consent. Rape, in any form, is a criminal offense.
SEXUAL ASSAULT

Sexual assault is any sexual act that is forced or against your will. It can be anything from unwanted touching to rape.  It’s an act of violence, not the result of an uncontrollable sex urge.  Over half of all sexual assaults occur between people who know each other, but the rapist can be anyone.

Avoiding certain situations can help protect you:
· Don’t consume alcohol or drugs.  They can affect your judgment and lower your defenses
· Never walk alone at night
· Avoid being isolated from a group at parties
· Walk briskly and confidently
· Trust your instincts- if you’re feeling uncomfortable, get away
· Go on double dates until you are comfortable with your date
· Remember what makes females and males attach different meanings to certain behavior
· Pay your own way so there is no confusion about what you “owe” your date
· Think about the signals you send. Keep them clear
· If you’re date says “no,” listen and stop what you are doing
· Wear clothing that will allow you flexibility if you need to escape and uncomfortable situation
· Make sure your parents know where you are and who you are with
· Call out for help if the situation looks dangerous, or if you feel threatened

If you are assaulted, do whatever you need to get out alive. When you can get to a safe place, you can call:
· Local police                                                     911
· Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline                            203-731-5204
· 24 hour hotline                                                 888-999-5545
· Susan B. Anthony Women’s Center                   860-482-7133

Rape crisis staff members are available twenty-four hours a day to talk with you, answer your questions, and provide support.  You will be able to make your own decisions.  All calls are strictly confidential.

Medical treatment is encouraged to help with any injuries or to treat STDs or pregnancy.  Evidence obtained during a hospital rape exam may provide needed assistance if further legal action is taken.

Remember, it’s important to report rapes to police so that your legal rights are protected.

Treatment can be administered at any of the following locations:
· Danbury Hospital                                              203-797-7000
· New Milford Hospital                                         860-355-2611
· Sharon Hospital                                                860-364-4141
· Charlotte Hungerford Hospital                             860-496-6666