The Aftermath...
Surviving Sexual Assault

DID YOU KNOW THAT SEXUAL ASSAULT IS:

• Any forced sexual activity?
• An act of control, aggression, or anger?
• Is not only physical, but can also be emotional or psychological (such as being pressured into sex, being given money/gifts in exchange for sex)?
• Most commonly committed by someone the victim knows?

SO, TAKE PRECAUTIONS:

• Be careful of your use of alcohol and drugs.
  Vulnerability increases when one is intoxicated or high.
• Know your sexual intentions and limits.
  You have the right to say "no" to any unwanted sexual contact.
• Communicate your limits firmly and directly.
  You have the right to expect your limits to be respected.
• Listen to your feelings.
  If you feel uncomfortable or think you may be at risk, leave the situation immediately and go to a safe place.
• Don't be afraid to "make waves" if you feel threatened.
  If you are being pressured or coerced into sexual activity against your will, don't hesitate to state your feelings and get out of the situation. Better a few minutes of social awkwardness or embarrassment that the trauma of a sexual assault.
• Attend large parties with friends you can trust. Agree to "look out" for one another.
  Try to leave with a group rather than alone or with someone you don't know very well.
• For the first several dates, insist on paying your own way or taking turns paying.
  Sometimes offenders use the "you owe me" line to try to make you feel you have to give him/her sex in return for them paying for your dinner, movie, etc.
• As a relationship may progress, avoid becoming physically, emotionally or socially isolated from friends and family.
  Assaults within ongoing relationships do happen.

HOWEVER --
Even if we do what we can to make ourselves less vulnerable, there is not way to guarantee that we can prevent a sexual assault.

SO REMEMBER...

A SEXUAL ASSAULT IS NEVER THE VICTIM'S FAULT
VICTIMS DO NOT CAUSE THEIR ASSAULTS

OFFENDERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR ACTIONS

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