• Try to stay calm. Everyone reacts to an attack differently. Know that by surviving, you did the right thing.

• Get medical help even if you decide not to report the crime to law enforcement. Under Florida Statute 960.001, victims are entitled to a medical forensic examination regardless of whether or not they report the crime to law enforcement, at no cost to the victim.

• If you choose to report the attack to law enforcement, do so as soon as possible.

• Do not change your clothes or wash before going to the emergency room. If you do change clothes, place all clothing in a paper bag and take it to the hospital with you.

• Call SPARCC’s hotline at 941-365-1976. An advocate will meet you at the hospital, provide emotional support, explain medical/legal procedures and answer your questions.

How You May Feel
Victims may experience many different feelings after they have been raped or assaulted. Some of the emotions that are commonly experienced include:

• Shock
• Anger
• Embarrassment
• Depression
• Blame
• Mistrust in people
• Fear
• Anxiety
• Denial

Healing & Recovery
Recovery takes time, and the process is different for everyone. A victim may need ongoing support during recovery. SPARCC provides specially trained advocates who will listen and offer assistance.

If Someone You Love Has Been Raped
Many times, the family and friends of a victim experience a great deal of distress as secondary victims. They often experience feelings of fear, anger, frustration and helplessness. It is important to find healthy ways of dealing with these emotions. Don’t be afraid to seek counseling and support from others; you need to take care of yourself so you can provide support to the victim.

• Listen. Do not voice your opinions. If the victim is silent, do not insist on discussing what has happened.

• Believe the victim. Place the blame on the perpetrator.

• Give the victim SPARCC’s hotline number: 941-365-1976.

If You Are Called Upon For Support

• Don’t be judgmental. Victims need information and compassion.

• Allow the victim to make decisions about what to do next. Rape leaves victims feeling a tremendous loss of control over their bodies and their situations; it is important to empower them as soon as possible in order for them to regain a sense of control.

• Maintain confidentiality.

• Allow the victim to express feelings and validate those feelings.