What You May Be Feeling
Survivors of sexual assault experience a wide range of reactions. Some have said that after the assault their emotions go up and down or from one extreme to another. It is important for you to know...
View ArticleRecovery
Experiencing so many different emotions is a part of working through what has happened to you. Right now, you may wonder when you will “get your life back.” Or, perhaps, you are not feeling much at...
View ArticleCommon Reactions to Traumatic Events
Initial Crisis: For the first few days or weeks, the assault may seem unreal. You may feel numb or you may experience intense or heightened emotions. You might even have physical symptoms of shock:...
View ArticleSAPAC and Community Support
Individuals outside your immediate circle of loved ones can also provide support and acceptance that may aid in your recovery. You are the person to determine the type of help that is most useful for...
View ArticleHow to Help a Survivor
Believe them.Reinforce that the assault was not their fault.Validate their experience.Be supportive, don’t overreact.Be patient. The survivor may express a range of strong emotions.Allow the survivor...
View ArticleTalking With Significant Others
You may be wondering who you should tell or what you should say to significant people in your life. Parents, friends, employers, neighbors, and partners can be sources of support and solace. Follow...
View ArticleSTI and HIV Testing
You may want to keep track of STIs for which you have been tested or treated. Ask your doctor or nurse exactly which tests are being completed. It may take several years for the symptoms of some STIs...
View ArticleThe Court System
There are two basic types of cases that go to court: criminal and civil.
View ArticleYour Role in the Criminal Justice Process
You are a witness in the state’s case against the assailant. You will be subpoenaed to testify during the criminal process. The prosecuting attorney or city attorney will present the case on behalf of...
View ArticleStages in the Criminal Process
Warrant Request and Authorization: The detective/officer assigned to your case will forward a report to the prosecuting attorney’s office. The prosecutor may want to interview you. Because sexual...
View ArticleCrime Victims Compensation
As a victim of a crime, you may be eligible for monetary assistance. Assistance may include compensation for medical expenses, counseling, rehabilitation, and loss of earnings resulting from an injury...
View ArticleCommon Medical Concerns
Receiving immediate and follow-up medical attention is one of the most important things that you can do for yourself if you have been sexually assaulted. You may have injuries that need to be treated,...
View ArticleCivil Suit
You have the option of filing a civil lawsuit. By doing this, you could possibly be awarded monetary damages. Here are some key points to keep in mind about this option:
View ArticleStalking
If you were raped by someone that you know, you may be at risk of being stalked or harassed by the perpetrator or by friends or family of the perpetrator. If the person who raped you was a stranger,...
View ArticleOptions If You Are Being Stalked
Stalking is a crime. If you are being stalked, you can report this to your local law enforcement agency. If you wish to make a report of stalking to the criminal or civil justice system, here are steps...
View ArticlePersonal Protection Order (PPO)
A PPO is an order from the court to the stalker that prohibits certain activity. If the stalker violated the order they could be sentenced up to 93 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.A PPO Can Prohibit...
View ArticleOther University Reporting Options
In addition to previous information, keep in mind that the University of Michigan has many other resources that may be of assistance to you in addressing your experience. SAPAC can help you connect to...
View ArticleServices
Crisis InterventionThe crisis line is available 24-hours a day and is staffed by professionals, who provide confidential crisis intervention, information and referral services to survivors of sexual...
View ArticleSAPAC Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women Grant Award
In addition, in 2004, SAPAC was awarded a Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women grant entitled, "Grants to Reduce Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking on...
View ArticleWhat You May Be Feeling
Survivors of sexual assault experience a wide range of reactions. Some have said that after the assault their emotions go up and down or from one extreme to another. It is important for you to know...
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