rape statistics
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Sexual Assault Statistics

     According to the U.S. Department of Justice someone in America is sexually assaulted every two and a half minutes; and one in six women has been the victim of sexual assault or attempted assault. Other studies indicate it could be as high as one in three. But there is hope. Since 1993, the cases of sexual assaults has fallen by 64%. Two-thirds of those were committed by someone known to the victim. 58% have never been reported.
    Perhaps through education and awareness sexual assaults will decrease even further in the future.
    For free, confidential counseling, 24 hours a day contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE.

Victims of sexual assault:

  • Go to the emergency room or police station immediately. 
  • Don’t shower or brush your teeth as it will damage valuable evidence. 
  • Report your sexual assault and allow emergency personnel to conduct a rape examination. The examination is necessary to preserve evidence left on your body and to identify any health risks from the encounter. You may also be given medication to counteract potential STDs. 
  • Ask law enforcement officers or medical personnel for victim’s resources in your area. 
  • If desired, seek out a counselor, member of the clergy, teacher or close friend to help you begin the healing process.

Friends / Family of victims of sexual assault:

  • Listen to victims of sexual assault, but don't judge them.
  • Encourage them to report the incident to law enforcement officials. Remember, the more attackers who are prosecuted, the fewer women they will be able to victimize.
  • Encourage victims of sexual assault to seek help through a hotline or counselor.
  • Be patient. Each victim heals at their own rate and it may take some time to come to terms with the assault before that healing can even begin.



Resourses Available for Victims     

     If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, please take time to visit the resourses listed on my links page. Local and national links and hotline numbers are available, as well as links to abuse and adoption sites.
     Alternative healing, such as essential oil therapy, has also been found to be a  source of comfort and healing to those who have experienced  physical or emotional trauma. Please take a moment to read more about the art of healing with essential oils here.

     For books on sexual assault, adoption or for personal safety items including pepper spray, please visit my aStore by clicking here ...
RobynHeirtzler.com Associates Store
     
     For information on essential oil diffusers and aromatherapy, please visit Diffuser World.



Reduce your chances of sexual assault

  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Trust your instincts.
  • Stay with your friends or family at parties or events. 
  • Don’t allow yourself to become isolated with someone you don’t know well or don’t trust. 
  • Don’t be afraid of offending someone by leaving abruptly when you feel uncomfortable.
  • Carry a cell phone or pepper spray when going somewhere alone.
  • Avoid using stairways or streets where you could become isolated and vulnerable.
  • If you feel you are being watched or followed, strike up a conversation with someone (another woman, store clerk, etc.). You are less vulnerable when you are with someone. 
  • Never accept a drink that you didn't see poured, and do not leave your drink unattended. Date rape drugs, GHB and Rohypnol, are odorless, tasteless and colorless. Ketamine is a white powder. All are easily slipped into drinks.
  • Take a self-defense class.