Reporting sexual assault is deeply personal. There’s no one “right” way to do it, and no timeline you have to follow. Whether it happened an hour ago or years ago, whether you’re ready to speak up or just exploring your options—you’re allowed to move at your own pace.
This guide isn’t about pressuring you. It’s about giving you information so that if and when you’re ready, you know what to expect and where to turn. You are not alone in this.
Step 1: Make Sure You’re Safe
Before anything else, check in with yourself: Are you in a safe place? If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or find a nearby friend, neighbor, or public place where you can get help. If you need to leave a situation or get medical care, do that first.
It’s okay to prioritize your safety and wellbeing above everything else right now.
Step 2: Reach Out for Support
You don’t have to do this alone. Whether it’s a close friend, a family member, a counselor, or a sexual assault hotline—talking to someone you trust can make a huge difference. You don’t even have to dive into the details. Just saying, “I need help” is enough.
If you’re not sure where to start, these resources are confidential and available 24/7:
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) – 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or online chat at rainn.org
- Local crisis centers – Many communities have their own hotlines or support centers with trained advocates
These folks won’t judge you, question your choices, or rush you. They’ll listen, believe you, and help you decide your next steps—whatever those might be.
Step 3: Consider Medical Care (If You Feel Comfortable)
Even if you don’t have visible injuries, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional. A doctor or nurse can assess your health, check for injuries, and help prevent things like infections or pregnancy.
If the assault happened recently (within 72–120 hours, depending on the area), you can also choose to have a sexual assault forensic exam—sometimes called a “rape kit.” This exam collects evidence that could be useful if you decide to report to the police. You don’t have to decide right away. In many states, the evidence can be stored anonymously while you take time to think.
The exam is free in most places and handled by specially trained professionals, often at hospitals or designated sexual assault centers. You can also request a victim advocate to stay with you during the process.
Step 4: Decide Whether to Report to Law Enforcement
This is your choice. Some people report right away. Others wait days, months, or even years. And some never report—and that’s okay, too.
If you do want to report, here are some ways to do it:
- Call your local police department: You can speak with an officer and give a statement.
- Go to a hospital: If you’re receiving a forensic exam, the staff can help initiate a report if you choose to file one.
- Report anonymously: In some areas, you can make an anonymous report, which allows you to share information without revealing your name.
- Report to your school or workplace: If the assault occurred in a school or job setting, there may be Title IX or HR processes in place.
When you report, you can bring someone with you—an advocate, a friend, or family member. You’re allowed to ask questions, take breaks, and request a female or male officer if it makes you more comfortable.
It’s important to know that making a report doesn’t mean you’re immediately starting a criminal case. It just means you're opening a door—you still have choices along the way.
Step 5: Understand Your Rights
Survivors of sexual assault have rights, even if those rights vary by state or country. These often include:
- The right to be treated with respect and compassion
- The right to request a victim advocate
- The right to ask questions and receive information about the process
- The right to decline certain procedures or questions
- The right to a copy of the police report (once it’s filed)
In many areas, victim advocacy programs offer legal support, counseling, and assistance navigating the court system—often for free.
Step 6: Take Care of Yourself—Emotionally and Physically
Reporting sexual assault, or even just thinking about it, can bring up a lot. Shock. Anger. Guilt. Confusion. Numbness. There is no “normal” way to feel—and you don’t have to have it all figured out.
What you do need is space to heal.
Consider seeing a trauma-informed therapist or counselor, joining a support group, or talking to a survivor hotline when you need someone to listen. Healing doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t follow a straight line—but it does happen. Give yourself the grace to move through it however you need.
A Gentle Reminder
No matter what anyone else says or how the system responds, what happened to you was not your fault. You didn’t deserve it. You didn’t “ask for it.” You are allowed to feel whatever you’re feeling. And you are worthy of safety, healing, and care.
Whether you report today, next year, or never—your story matters.
Final Thoughts
Reporting sexual assault can feel overwhelming, but it’s not something you have to figure out all at once. It’s okay to ask questions. It’s okay to change your mind. And it’s okay to take it one step at a time.
How to report sexual assault -If you choose to report, you’re not just seeking justice—you’re reclaiming your voice. And even if you don’t report, you’re still doing the brave work of surviving and healing. That matters just as much.
Above all, please know this: You are not alone. There are people—right now—who want to help, who believe you, and who will stand by your side no matter what.