If You are Sexually Assaulted

Help is available and recovery is possible. Talking with someone aids your recovery. Free and confidential services are available from Sexual Assault Survivor Services (309) 438-3756 or (309) 438-3655.

Students often find it difficult to talk about what has happened and hope that by not thinking about it, things will get back to normal. That typically does not work; it is much more helpful to talk with someone and obtain support. Accessing services supports your safety and recovery and can assist you in accessing other needed resources. Services from the Sexual Assault Survivor Services Program and Student Counseling Services are free, private and confidential.

Consider reporting the assault to police by telephoning 911. Reporting can aid your recovery and prevent others from being assaulted. If you have been assaulted on campus you may telephone the ISU Police at 911 or (309) 438-8631. If the assault occurred in Bloomington or Normal, telephone 911 or (309) 888-5030.
Know that most university faculty and staff must report incidents of sexual assault to the Office of Equal Opportunity, and Access (OEOA).
The university is committed to both supporting your well-being and safety and acting to ensure the safety of our campus community and has therefore, established procedures for addressing incidents of sexual misconduct/assault and relationship violence. The survivor, however, determines his/her level of participation in this process. Sexual Assault Survivor Services and counselors are not required to report incidents to OEOA.
Try to preserve all physical evidence. Do no bathe, shower, use the toilet or change clothing. If you must remove your clothing, place them in a paper bag to prevent deterioration of evidence.
Take care of yourself. Seek medical attention from a hospital, Student Health Service, or another health care provider. Student Health Service cannot complete the rape evidence collection kit (rape kit). A rape crisis advocate can be called to help you through this process at the hospital. Medical and follow up care are needed whether or not you report the assault

Other Suggestions

Talk with someone about your experience. Healing is helped by seeking the support of others. Recovery is impeded by silence, denial and self-blame.
Remember it is not your fault; you cannot be responsible for the actions of someone else.

Survivor Services Coordinator

Accessing needed resources on campus and within the community
Reviewing reporting options and accompanying the survivor to file reports
Assist in arranging for contact with course instructors and accommodations needed to maintain academic progress
Exploring options for a change in residence
On-going support