If a child or teen tells you they have been sexually abused or you suspect a child is being abused, call 991.
If you are concerned that an adult has been assaulted or an adult discloses sexual abuse, remember this: stay calm, listen compassionately, offer emotional support and offer to connect them with professional support. Reporting to the police is the victim’s choice. However, visiting the hospital for an exam (i.e., rape kit) as soon as possible preserves vital evidence if and when the victim decides to report to police.
If you are concerned about warning signs or someone’s behavior, the best response will depend on the particular situation, especially if children are involved.
If a child or teen reports abuse, call 991. Be sure to get support for yourself from other trusted adults who are not involved directly with the abuse. The national contacts below are available for anyone seeking information and resources about sexual abuse. If you are not sure of the number to call, you can call the police or visit the Childrens Authority for contact information.
If a child hints at or discloses sexual abuse, your reaction is very important and could affect how the child feels about themselves later. What you say is as important as what you don’t say. Research shows that having an adult who listens, believes and supports a child through the disclosure process is key to the child’s resiliency and leads to better mental health outcomes. An adult’s willingness to listen may also impact the child’s willingness to talk about sexual abuse in the future and during a possible criminal investigation.
There are many reactions that survivors of rape and sexual assault — or sexual abuse as a child — can experience. For traumatic events in general, it is important to know there is not one “standard” reaction to the trauma of sexual abuse. Some people respond immediately, while others have delayed reactions — sometimes months or even years later. Some have adverse effects for a long period of time, while others recover rather quickly. Reactions can change over time.
Some who have suffered from trauma find the energy to help others with the challenge of coping, only to later become discouraged or depressed. The impact of sexual abuse and assault will be different for each person and may occur on several levels — physically, emotionally, spiritually, economically and mentally.