TIP OF THE MONTH
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Sexual Assault or rape is a serious incident that happens to men and women but many do not report the assault. Sexual assault is described by The Third Edition of Obstetrics and Gynecology as manual, oral or genital contact with the genitalia of the victim without the victim’s consent. Rape is defined as a form of sexual assault involving oral, vaginal or anal penetration; forced sexual activity against one’s will.
If you are uncomfortable in any situation, trust your feelings and leave the area or find a friend immediately.
Victims often feel ashamed, blame themselves or think they could have done something to stop the violence. Rape is never the person’s fault. If you have been raped or have been sexually assaulted get help immediately! It is vital that you follow these important steps:
Find an escape route. Retreat to a safe place.
Preserve all physical evidence of the assault.
-do not take a shower, bathe, douche, brush your teeth, or change your clothes if possible.
-If clothes have been removed, place it in a paper bag or grocery bag. No plastic bags.
- Do not disturb the area where the assault occurred.
-a friend, family member, your RA, Public Safety or someone you trust to give you comfort
Report the assault
-Gable Health Center, Albright’s Public Safety, the police or go to St. Joseph’s Hospital
or the Reading Hospital and Medical Center (emergency department)
-If the assault happened between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday call the Gable Health Center.
-After hours- contact Public Safety, whether you want to file a report or not. They will
transport you to the nearest hospital.
Have a medical examination
-Even if you feel you do not have physical injuries or do not feel that you need to have an exam,
get one anyway because you could be at risk of becoming exposed to sexually transmitted
infections or pregnancy.
- It is extremely important to seek medical care after the assault.
Write down as much as you remember about the assault, including a description of the person.
Seek emotional support
-Make an appointment with the Albright College Counseling Center or Berks Women in Crisis
Remember! It is not your fault! Rape is a violent crime and is meant to hurt and scare the
victim. People who rape or sexually assault a person want power. It is against the law and
should be reported to the authorities. Remember trust your feelings to make the
right decision for you and to take care of yourself.
Gable Health and Counseling Center: (610) 921-7532
Public Safety: (610) 921-7670
Berks Women in Crisis: (610) 372-9540
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