If you’re visiting this page, you may have experienced sexual assault at some point in your life, you may be experiencing it now, or you think someone you care about is experiencing it. We know that this is a difficult and sensitive topic. Many of our clients have questions, so below, we’ve provided answers to some of the most common ones we receive. If you have more questions, want help, or just need to talk to someone, please reach out. We are here for you and we understand your challenges. Our team of bilingual, bicultural, high-trained advocates are here to give you the support you need. You are not alone.
What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault is an any sexual contact or act that is not wanted. If you are experiencing or have experienced sexual assault, call LIVE Center to get the help you deserve.
Are there different types of sexual assault?
Sexual assault can include many things. Unwanted touching, kissing, oral sex, anal sex, vaginal sex, exposure to sexual content, or any type of sexual act that is not consensual is considered sexual assault.
Who can be the target of sexual assault?
Sexual abuse can happen to anyone, but being assaulted it is never your fault.
Is it common to know the person who sexually assaulted you?
A majority of people know and trust the person who sexually assaulted them. It could be a friend, family member, classmate, spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend, or someone whom you just met. This is still considered sexual assault.
I agreed to go to a private place with someone I know, and they touched me in ways I didn’t want them to. Does that still count as sexual assault?
Assault committed by a person you know, in a place you have granted access to, is just as serious as a sexual assault committed by a stranger. Reach out to us to learn more about the resources we provide to address these situations.
I don’t know how to explain what I’m feeling. Is this normal?
Everyone’s reaction is different. Your feelings and reactions can change from day to day, minute to minute, and every reaction is valid. Changes in feelings and behavior are normal. It might take some time to feel better, which is why it is so important to seek help.
What do I do if I have experienced or am currently experiencing sexual assault?
There are several important steps to take. First, try to find a safe place to go. It could be a friend’s house, your church, a sexual assault crisis center like LIVE Center, or another place where you will be safe.
There are additional steps you can take, including visiting a doctor or a hospital to be treated for any injuries, to help prevent STIs, and receive contraception if needed. It is most important to address your health and safety. You do not need to report the assault if you do not want to.
Other steps may include filing a report with the police. If you choose to do so, remember not to shower, wash your clothes, brush your teeth, eat, drink, or smoke, brush your hair or go to the bathroom before evidence can be collected.
You can get help with all of these steps by calling LIVE Center immediately and getting connected with one of our Community Advocates. We are here to support you.
No one has the right to hurt you, regardless of who you are, where you’re from, the language you speak, your background, or any other reason. You are not alone and you don’t deserve to suffer in silence. Give us a call and we will make sure you get the support you need.
Watch our video:
“I was really afraid and I just wanted to isolate myself… But one day I got up the courage and dialed and you treated me very well. You didn’t judge me…”
If you need immediate help, you can call our 24/7 bilingual helpline.
Learn More & Call Us
Sexual Assault During Migration – this brochure provides information for people who have survived sexual abuse on their migration journey. It has questions to determine if you were sexually assaulted during your migration and how these experiences can impact you.
Sexual Assault in Childhood – this brochure provides information about childhood sexual assault, the forms it can take, and how it can affect you as an adult.
Incest – this brochure provides information for people who have experienced incest. It explains what incest is, the forms it can take, and how it can affect you as an adult.
Sexual Assault – this brochure provides information about sexual assault, the different types of sexual assault you may have experienced or are currently experiencing, and the impact this abuse can have.
Sexual Assault (Hampton Roads Version) – the same brochure for residents of the Hampton Roads region.
The most important thing to remember is that any form of sexual assault is never your fault. Responsibility for abuse always falls on the aggressor. Healing is possible, and we can help.