
What to do
Are you an adult victim of sexual violence?
First of all, whether you’re a man, a woman, an LGBTQ+ individual, an immigrant, etc., the sexual violence you may have experienced leaves its mark, and you may have tried to disclose it to various people around you. Unfortunately, there are many myths and prejudices surrounding sexual assault that can be obstacles to disclosure. Some people might respond negatively, such as not believing you, or minimizing the situation, which only increases your suffering.
Talking about your sexual violence experience can be very difficult and stressful, so it’s strongly recommended that you talk to someone who will listen to you and support you through this important moment.
What can I do if I’ve experienced sexual violence?
- First, make sure you’re safe: contact someone you trust, call 911 or go to a safe place (like a hospital or police station).
- If the sexual violence took place less than 5 days ago, go to the nearest designated centre to proceed with the Sexual Assault Evidence Kit. The Sexual Assault Evidence Kit is the tool used during the forensic examination to collect samples that can be used if you decide to make a police statement (although you don’t have to intend to do so to proceed with the Evidence Kit). All stages of the procedure require your consent. You may bring clothing (or other objects) worn at the time of the incident.
- If the sexual violence occurred more than 5 days ago, go to the nearest designated centre or to your doctor to check the overall state your health. Certain procedures, such as screening for sexually transmitted or blood-borne infections (STBBI), pregnancy tests and others, can be performed.
- To find the designated centre nearest you, call the Sexual Violence Helpline at 1 888 933-9007 or dial 811.
- You can also contact CAVAS to speak with a counsellor who can provide support and guidance. As soon as you recognize that you are experiencing difficulties related to sexual violence, you can contact us to request direct assistance. You don’t have to be involved in legal proceedings to access our services.
- Do you feel the need or urgency to talk about your experience of sexual violence and better understand the impact it has had on your life? By contacting CAVAS, you can receive support in these areas, and there’s no time limit for requesting services. As soon as you recognize that you are experiencing difficulties related to sexual violence, you can contact us to request direct assistance. You don’t have to be involved in legal proceedings to access our services.
- Some people (and perhaps even yourself) may have trivialized the sexual violence they have experienced. But sexual violence is criminal and has no place in society.
- Asking for help is an essential first step towards breaking free from the silence and consequences that may have emerged in your life as a result of sexual violence. By seeking help, you are taking effective steps to reclaim your power.
- For help at any time, you can call the Sexual Violence Helpline at 1-888-933-9007. The service is free, bilingual and confidential.
- You can also contact CAVAS to speak with a counsellor.
CAVAS offers a specialized support service to anyone aged 12 and over who has been a victim of sexual violence, as well as to their loved ones.
- woman
- man
- LGBTQ+ person
- immigrant person
- etc.
A few statistics…
1 in 3 women
has been the victim of at least one sexual assault since the age of 16.
1 in 6 men
will be a victim of sexual assault in his lifetime.
In more than 80% of cases,
the victim knows the person who sexually assaulted them.
On average, men wait more than 20 years
before disclosing for the first time, and an average of 28 years before discussing the matter in depth.
Sexual violence committed with a weapon or causing physical injury
represents only 3% of sexual violence committed against adults.
In Canada, only 5 to 6% of sexual assaults
are reported to the police each year.
Test your knowledge of sexual violence with this quiz
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