IN ADDITION TO medical treatment, patients who've been victims of sexual violence often need emotional support, guidance, and legal assistance. Let your patients know about these online resources offering information as well as live, digital, and telephone support networks. These websites can also provide healthcare professionals with the behavioral health training they need to care for victims of sexual abuse.
Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network
https://www.rainn.org
RAINN is the largest antisexual violence organization in the United States and the founder of the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE). Its website has information on how to get help after sexual violence. Besides victim services, RAINN's website contains information about reporting a crime of sexual violence to police, including a list of statutes of limitations by state. Online visitors can also search by state to find local crisis centers.
Take Back the Night
https://takebackthenight.org
This international organization strives to end all forms of sexual violence through awareness events and initiatives. Its website provides instructions on how to get involved or even hold your own walk, run, or other event. TBTN also offers free legal support to sexual violence survivors.
National Sexual Violence Resource Center
http://www.nsvrc.org
NSVRC offers evidence-based resources on how to prevent and respond to sexual violence. Its website includes sexual violence statistics, position statements, training curricula, prevention initiatives, and a podcast series. A Healthcare Initiative section focuses on the role healthcare providers can play in understanding and preventing sexual violence.
Male Survivor
http://www.malesurvivor.org/index.php
Not all survivors of sexual violence are women. Male Survivor is dedicated to preventing sexual violence against boys and men and supporting survivors through advocacy efforts, research, and patient education. Its website can connect victims of sexual violence with local therapists, support groups, and recovery workshops and events. Healthcare professionals can also turn to the website for training information regarding the unique behavioral health needs of male sexual abuse victims.