If you or someone you know has experienced abuse or sexual assault, help is available. 

National Domestic Violence Hotline:  1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1.800.656.HOPE (4673)

These hotlines are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Find an advocate near you

To find an advocate near you, please visit our member programs page. 

Things to remember if you have been assaulted:

• It is not your fault.  No matter where you were, what you’ve done, what choices you’ve made, or what happened to you—it is not your fault.
• Be patient with yourself.  You have experienced a trauma. Healing takes time.
• Believe in yourself. You are still capable of doing all the things you did before this happened.  You are the same person you have always been—only stronger.
• People care about what happens to you. Talk to someone.  Talk to a trusted friend, family member, co-worker, or call a sexual assault or domestic violence advocacy program.  Advocates are always available to talk.  Find an advocate (link to member program list). 

If you have a friend or family member who has been abused or sexually assaulted, the three best things to say are:

• I believe you.
• It is not your fault.
• I will help you.  (And then actually do it).

Some things to remember as you are supporting the victim:

• Never blame the victim for what happened.  The blame ALWAYS lies with the offender.
• Don’t make choices or decisions for the victim.
• Never tell anyone about what happened to the victim.  Respect the victim’s right to tell those s/he wants to know.
• Remind the victim that you love and care about him/her.
• Support the victim’s decisions, even if you don’t agree with them. 
• Listen.  Don’t try to fix anything.  Just listen. 
• Learn more about sexual and domestic violence.  Knowledge is power! Contact SCCADVASA at (803) 256-2900 for more information.