Dating

I have been raped by a date.

1. If you have been raped then you must be feeling a wide range of intense emotions and are probably dealing with a lot of fear, anxiety, and maybe even guilt. Those feelings are normal and will change over time, but they probably will not just go away until or unless you talk to someone about them.
2. If you are still in the relationship with the rapist, then you need to get out of the relationship immediately.
3. Report the rape. This is an important step for you to begin healing and also may keep the rapist from making someone else a victim. Just because the rape happened while you were with someone you know or on a date, it does not make the rape okay or legal.
4. Find an adult friend who you can talk to about the rape. Trust them to help you and support you through the trauma. Your parents need to know what is going on, but if you cannot talk to them seek out a teacher, a coach, a minister, or a counselor
5. Stay strong. The rapist may try to convince you that they will change and ask you to stay with them. Even though they may appear to be sincere and you want to believe them, don’t agree to give them another chance to hurt you.
6. It is very important to remember that the rapist had no right to rape you. No matter what was said or done the rape was not your fault and you did not deserve to be raped.
7. For support and someone to talk to, call the HopeLine (1-800-394-HOPE) or visit www.dmlive.com to chat with a Hope Coach.