Resources for Sexual Abuse Victims

This content contains sensitive subject matter related to sexual abuse.

Victims of sexual abuse can have trouble getting help because they are unsure where to turn. Survivors of sexual assault may not want to call the police or law enforcement because they fear they won’t be believed. Victims of sexual abuse can get help from advocacy groups, hotlines, or mental health providers.

There are many organizations that victims of sex abuse can turn to for legal, emotional, and support services.

National Sexual Assault Hotline

The National Sexual Assault Hotline is operated by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN). The hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). There are also online chat services available on their website. RAINN is the largest anti-sexual violence hotline with local sexual assault service providers to help survivors of sexual violence.

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) has resources for survivors of sexual abuse and victims of crimes involving sexual violence. It also provides resources for family members with a loved one suffering sexual harassment or abuse. The NSVRC also has a directory of organizations to search for different types of organizations by area.

Resources for Domestic Sexual Abuse Victims

Sexual abuse can happen between intimate partners or spouses. Victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse face more challenges because they often have to live with their abusers or share custody. If you need immediate help to get away from an abusive partner or want to report domestic abuse, you can find help from the National Domestic Violence Hotline:

• 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
• Text “START” to 88788

Child Sexual Abuse Reporting

If you suspect a child may be a victim of sexual abuse, you should report it immediately to your local police or law enforcement. Stop It Now! is an organization with helpful services and guidance for children and adult survivors of child sexual abuse. It also has a helpline for questions about child abuse and the next steps to take.

Resources for Other Victims of Sexual Abuse

There are many types of sexual abuse and different kinds of victims. Some people may feel more comfortable seeking out sexual abuse resources aimed at those in similar situations. There are other advocacy support groups and helplines to help:

• Victims of human trafficking: Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888
• Male survivors of sex abuse: Visit malesurvivor.org
• Immigrant sexual abuse survivors: Visit VAWnet
• Sex abuse of LGBTQ+ individuals: Visit the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs

Victims of sexual assault can also get confidential support, medical attention, and victim help through a local rape crisis center.

Legal Resources for Sexual Abuse Victims

Survivors of sexual abuse may also have civil legal options to hold their abusers accountable. A civil lawsuit is separate from a criminal case. In a civil case, victims could recover compensation for medical care, lost income, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.

Victims of sexual abuse can successfully recover compensation in a civil lawsuit even where the abuser was never convicted in criminal court. If you want to know about legal services and how to file a sexual abuse case in your state, talk to a sex abuse injury lawyer where you live.