What should I do if I’ve been sexually abused?

Learn the steps to take if you’ve experienced sexual abuse, including seeking immediate safety, medical care, and emotional support.

About this article...

  • Suitable for members aged 12-17
  • 4 minute read
  • 734 words (1.8 sides of A4)
  • Providing help and guidance on Sexual Abuse and Staying Safe
  • Created and reviewed by our team of experts

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Understanding Sexual Abuse and it's Implications

Sexual abuse is a deeply troubling violation of a person's right to safety, privacy, and autonomy. It involves any non-consensual sexual act or behaviour committed by one person upon another. It can range from unwanted touching and sexual remarks to more severe forms of coercion and assault. Recognising and admitting that you've been sexually abused is an incredibly courageous first step, although it can be immensely difficult and emotionally taxing.

The Immediate Aftermath of Sexual Abuse

It's important to understand that after experiencing such a traumatic event, a range of emotions is entirely normal, including shock, anger, sadness, or even numbness. These reactions are all valid, as everyone processes trauma in different ways. The immediate priority, however, should be your safety and wellbeing.

Safety First

If you are in immediate danger or feel unsafe, finding a secure environment should be your first action. This might mean going to a friend's house, a family member's home, or anywhere you feel protected.

Seek Medical Attention

Regardless of whether the abuse just occurred or if some time has passed, seeking medical attention is crucial. Medical professionals can provide necessary care for any physical injuries, offer preventive treatments for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and collect forensic evidence for the police.

Navigating Emotional and Psychological Impacts

Sexual abuse takes a significant toll not just physically but also emotionally and psychologically. Many survivors experience continued stress, fear, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Talking to Someone

It can feel isolating to deal with the aftermath of sexual abuse. Opening up to someone, whether it's a trusted adult, a friend, or a professional, can provide immense relief and is often the first step towards healing. Confidentiality can be maintained by speaking with therapists or counsellors who are experienced in dealing with such cases.

Legal Considerations and Reporting the Abuse

The legal process can be daunting, so it's advisable to seek guidance from legal professionals or organisations dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual abuse.

Reporting to Authorities

It is important to report the abuse. You can contact emergency services or your local police station or any legal authority designated for such cases.  

Maintaining Your Mental Health and Wellbeing

While navigating through these difficult times, taking care of your mental health is paramount. Here are some ways to maintain and protect your emotional wellbeing:

What should I do if I've been sexually abused?

  • Stay Connected: Keep in touch with supportive friends and family.
  • Maintain Routines: As much as possible, try to keep your daily routines. It can provide a sense of normalcy.
  • Engage in Activities: Continue to engage in activities you enjoy to help manage stress and anxiety.
  • Consider Mindfulness Practices: Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Moving Forward

Recovery from sexual abuse is a deeply personal journey, and it's important to move at your own pace. There's no "right" way to heal, and what works for one person might not work for another. The key is finding what feels right for you and seeking out support along the way. You are not alone, and with the right support and resources, healing is possible.

Remember, the experience does not define you. You have the strength and resilience within you to overcome this and lead a fulfilling, happy life.

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

  • Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
  • NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
  • The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
  • SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
  • Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.