I have just been raped/sexually assaulted, what should I do?
- If you can, contact someone who will support you, such as a family member or friend immediately.
- Go to your local Accident and Emergency Department for the treatment of any injuries.
- Do contact The Centre for support.
- Do contact your G.P for any follow up medical treatment
If you are considering reporting to the Gardai:
- Do not wash until after a medical examination because important forensic evidence may be washed away.
- Do not wash or discard underwear or outerwear, as these will be needed for forensic examination.
- Do contact The Centre. A counsellor will give you the information you need and support you in your decisions.
- Do not drink anything if oral sex is alleged as as a mouth swab needs to be taken.
For further information on reporting please click here
For further information on Forensic Medical Examinations please click here
People react in a variety of ways to being raped and sexually abused and there is no such thing as a "typical reaction".
Reactions may include the following:
Immediate effects:
Shock and Withdrawal / Panic and Confusion / Terror and disbelief / Feeling dirty / Distressed / Crying and shaking / Calm and Detached.
Short Term Effects:
Dwelling on the details of the rape / Recurrent Flashbacks / Sleeplessness and Nightmares / Easily startled/ Obsessive Washing / Physical Trauma.
Common Long Term Effects:
Dramatic mood-swings / Recurrent and intrusive recollections of the assault / Self-blame and guilt / Fear / Deep emotional pain / Difficulty in trusting / Difficulty in building new relationships / Sexual difficulties / Impaired concentration and memory / Difficulty in coping with normal routines.
If you have been raped or sexually assaulted support can help you recover
Call us on 1800 750 780 we are here to listen and support you.