What Is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is another way to say, “bad touch to your private parts.”  It means someone touched or had sex with you when you didn’t want them to touch you.

Other words for these actions are:

• Rape
• Sexual abuse
• Sexual violence

Your Body Belongs To You

No one should touch your body or do anything to it unless you understand what they are going to do and you say “yes.”  These are serious crimes. We have laws to protect people from abuse. Your body belongs only to you. Bad touch can make you feel scared or very hurt. Sexual assault can hurt your body and your feelings. They did something wrong, but you didn't do anything wrong.
It’s Okay To Say “No”:

• It’s okay to say “no” when anyone touches you in a way  that you don’t like or don't want.
• It’s okay to say “no” when anyone touches you in a way  that you don’t understand.
• Even if you say yes to some kinds of touching or some  kinds of  sexual actions, you can say “no” to others.
• You can also change your mind.

Remember: No one deserves to be sexually assaulted.
Remember: Help is available for victims and the people who love them.

How You Might Feel After Someone Hurts You
There is no right or wrong way to feel after being touched or hurt in bad ways. It is normal and okay to have lots of feelings. It can hurt in a lot of ways that don’t show on the outside.

• After someone hurts you, you might feel afraid of being  alone  or of going to sleep.
• You might feel confused or upset.
• Your stomach or head might hurt.
• Anger
• Sadness
• Guilt
• Fear
• Shyness
• No feelings
• Tired
• Sleepy
• Feeling crazy or out of control
• Feeling like your body is different
• Feeling sick

Talk To Someone
It’s okay to feel scared or hurt. Help is there so that you can start to feel better and safe. People around you can help, so it is important to talk to your doctor about your body and to talk to someone about your feelings.
You can talk to:

• a friend you trust
• your family
• a doctor or nurse or other professional
• a police officer

You can talk to caring people by phone or in person. Their help is free during the day or at night. They can help you get the support you need.

For more information, contact the following entities:

Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center
(305) 585-RAPE (7273)

Florida Council Against Sexual Violence
1-888-956-RAPE
www.fcasv.org

RAINN
Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
www.rainn.org