Sexual assault and sexual abuse impact thousands of Michigan citizens every year. You are not alone and there is help. For many survivors reading information and getting your questions answered is a helpful part of recovery. The most important thing to know is that if you have been sexually assaulted or abused, it is not your fault. The only person responsible for the assault is the perpetrator.
Sexual assault and abuse can happen to anyone. Depending upon your life circumstances, how you identify yourself, the culture you grew up in, and the communities you are a part of, sexual assault may impact you differently. It may affect how you feel about reaching out for help and your access to services that are right for you. You have the right to say what you need and be treated with dignity and respect. There is help to support you in your healing.
Sexual assault, sexual abuse, molestation, rape, and
incest are commonly used terms to describe different forms of assault. Learn
more about sexual assault and frequently asked questions.
Children are the most vulnerable members of society. They
are also less likely to report abuse, because of fear, or confusion. Click the
link below to learn more about the effects of sexual abuse on children.
Elder abuse is a major problem facing nursing homes and
assisted living facilities. We learn more each day about the impact that sexual
abuse can have on our elders.
Adults and children with disabilities are assaulted at
much higher rates than the general population. Disability can include a wide
range of limitations such as hearing, sight, physical, cognitive, or
developmental limitations. Some perpetrators will take advantage of people with
disabilities.
Anyone can be a sexual assault perpetrator. Most
perpetrators are known by the victim, but they can also be strangers. They use
emotional pressure, grooming behavior, coercion and/or physical force to commit
an assault.
Adults and children who have been sexually abused or
assaulted react to trauma in many different ways. Any reaction you have is
normal.
Healing is possible. Victims of sexual assault and abuse
heal in their own individual ways. Learn more about the healing process,
therapy, alternative methods of healing and options for help.
It takes courage to talk about the assault. Learn tips
for sharing your experience and thinking about privacy and confidentiality.
More in depth information and resources are available
from national organizations on the issues of sexual assault, child sexual
abuse, domestic violence and stalking.
