Posted: 5/7/2014
The numbers are sobering: one in six boys and one in four girls will experience sexual assault before the age of 18. One in five women and one in 71 men will be raped at some point in their lives. And, according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, a majority of rapists are never apprehended.
“That’s why it’s so crucial that you know what to do if someone you know becomes a victim,” said Melissa Reilly, Director of the Victim Intervention Program (VIP) /Rape Crisis Center at Parkland Health & Hospital System. This is especially important when dealing with young people, the focus of Sexual Assault Awareness Month during April.
“Caregivers are in a unique position to not only report sexual assaults, but also to provide comfort and support to victims,” Reilly said. “Parents and caregivers are often the first to spot the warning signs.”
These signs can include changes in behavior or mood, lower school grades and social withdrawal.
“When someone discloses an assault to you, believing them is the most important thing you can do. Also, make sure the person is safe and seek out resources to help the person start the healing process,” Reilly said. “Talking about a sexual assault takes a great deal of courage and trust.”
At Parkland, every person who walks in the door is screened for abuse, whether it’s physical, sexual or emotional. Parkland’s VIP/Rape Crisis Center offers support to children, teens, adults and families by providing free counseling, 24-hour response for victims seen at Parkland facilities, as well as help with finding emergency shelters, legal assistance and other services. Spanish-speaking staff is available and services in other languages are offered through interpreters.
If you or a loved one is in an abusive situation and needs immediate assistance, call the Crisis Line at 214.590.0430. To make an appointment with a counselor or find out more information about Parkland’s services, please call the VIP/Rape Crisis Center at 214.590.2926.