The Oracle: What will a victim of sexual assault go through psychologically? What emotions might go through her head?

Julie Baltzley: When you’re sexually assaulted, it really alters your perception of the world and it really challenges your sense of trust; it really challenges your sense of safety. A lot of times survivors of sexual violence experience nightmares, [and] get flashbacks, post traumatic stress disorder [and] depression. It can affect your intimate relationships.

TO: What kind of treatment is available for victims of sexual assault?

JB: The most important thing is to help them to take their power back that was taken away from them. It could be that the survivor does not want counseling, does not want therapy, does not want to talk about it. It could be they just want to shut down for a little while and not deal with it. That’s what we can do—ask them what they need and let them go at their own pace. We try not to force them into situations because they’ve had that already. It’s best to let them direct their own dealing.

TO: How can friends of a victim of sexual assault support her?

JB: One of the most important ways that somebody can support a survivor of sexual assault is first of all to believe them. It takes a lot for someone to come out with their story. It’s almost easier for us to believe that the survivor did something to provoke it. That’s why believing the survivor is so important. Also, try to recognize your own biases about rape. Our own biases affect how we can support survivors and it’s important to be aware of that.

TO: What should you do if you are a victim of sexual assault?

JB: One of the things to keep in mind is that if the rape happened within 72 hours, you can go into the hospital for an evidentiary exam. If you do it within 72 hours, that’s some very important evidence. There also are vaccinations against STDs and the HIV virus and also something to prevent pregnancy as well they can give you. It’s important to get yourself checked out and make sure you’re doing fine physically. The sooner you can get to the hospital the better.

TO: What should you do if you know someone who has been sexually assaulted who hasn’t come forward about it?

JB: In a lot of ways, it goes back to listening to what the survivor wants. Also, the survivor may not realize that they can get free counseling. Maybe you can pass on any resources that you know them and help them reach out to support as they feel ready for it.