Where do I go from here?

After a sexual assault, survivors can experince a wide range of emotions and symptoms. Know that each survivor reacts to sexual violence in their own unique way. Some express their emotions while others prefer to keep their feelings inside. Some may tell others right away what happened, others will wait weeks, months, or even years before discussing the assault, if they ever choose to do so. To even begin thinking about what next steps and options are available to survivors can be overwhelming. Survivors can share as little or as much as they want when seeking support and also have a say in what resources and options work best for them.

Sometimes survivors may not know where to start, and that is ok! It may help to talk to someone on a confidential and free line about how they are feeling and what resources are available in their area. Even if  survivors may not be seeking resources at the moment, there are advocates and agencies who just want to provide that safe and listening space for survivors regardless if their assault happened recently or many years ago. We take the time to empathetically listen, to believe and validate without judgment. You are not alone. Click here to connect with someone on the Arizona Sexual and Domestic Violence Helpline through phone, text, chat, or email. Click here to find an Arizona domestic or sexual violence program in your area.

If you’re in need of immediate assistance:

The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7

1-800-656-4673