Sexual assaults: What to know and what to do

Sexual assault is a serious crime and a life-changing experience for survivors. If you or someone you care about has been assaulted, you probably feel shocked, confused, or scared. You don’t have to handle this alone. This page gives clear, practical steps you can take right now, how to access medical and legal help, and where to find emotional support.

Immediate steps if you or someone you know is assaulted

First, find a safe place away from the attacker. If you can, get to a friend’s house, a public spot, or a police station. Call emergency services if you are in danger.

Think about medical care. Even if you don’t have visible injuries, a medical exam can check for injuries, infections, and pregnancy. Ask for a forensic exam (sometimes called a rape kit) if you want evidence collected for reporting later. Try not to bathe, change clothes, eat, drink, or brush your teeth before the exam if you want to preserve evidence. If you’ve already done any of those, still seek care — it’s still important.

Reach out to someone you trust. A friend, family member, or a support line can help you stay calm and make decisions. You can also contact a local sexual assault hotline for immediate guidance and accompaniment to the hospital or police.

Reporting, medical care and support options

Reporting to the police is a personal choice. Some survivors report right away; others wait or never report. If you decide to report, bring as much information as you can: times, places, names, phone records, or messages. If you’re unsure, a victim support service can explain the process and accompany you to the station.

Get medical care even if you don’t report. Doctors can treat injuries, give emergency contraception, test and treat sexually transmitted infections, and provide mental health referrals. Many hospitals have trained staff who know how to handle sexual assault cases sensitively.

Look for local support services. Many countries have hotlines, NGOs, or clinics focused on sexual violence. These groups offer counseling, legal advice, shelter referrals, and court support. If you’re in Africa, check national helplines or contact international groups that work locally. If you can’t find a number, the nearest public hospital often knows local resources.

Protecting yourself going forward matters. Set boundaries in relationships and trust your instincts. Use safety apps, share your location with a trusted contact, and avoid isolated places if you feel unsafe. If harassment or threats continue, change locks, report to the authorities, and ask for restraining orders where available.

Healing takes time and looks different for everyone. Counseling, peer support groups, and survivor networks can help you process what happened and rebuild confidence. If you feel overwhelmed or have thoughts of harming yourself, contact emergency mental health services immediately.

If you need help right now, search for local sexual assault hotlines, emergency medical services, or visit the nearest hospital. You deserve care, respect, and justice. Daily Africa Global News is committed to sharing reliable information and links to support services across the continent. Reach out — help is available.