{"id":15,"date":"2014-11-12T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2014-11-12T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/help-information\/faq\/"},"modified":"2023-04-04T23:22:30","modified_gmt":"2023-04-04T22:22:30","slug":"faq-1","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/","title":{"rendered":"FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_background&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;5%&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;text-col-with-space-divider&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-offset-1 vc_col-lg-10&#8243;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Rape and Sexual Assault FAQs&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; use_theme_fonts=&#8221;yes&#8221;][toggles style=&#8221;minimal&#8221; accordion=&#8221;true&#8221; accordion_starting_functionality=&#8221;closed&#8221;][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;What is Rape\/Sexual Assault?&#8221;][vc_column_text]<strong>Sexual Assault<\/strong> is a general term that includes any forced or unwanted sexual activity, including rape, incest, sexual abuse, and molestation. Sexual assault includes any forced or unwanted touching of an intimate part of the body, such as breasts, buttocks, or genitals.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Rape <\/strong>is a specific type of sexual assault, involves any forced, manipulated, or coerced penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth, by a penis or other object. Rape can be perpetrated across genders and relationships &#8211; e.g. female-on-male, male-on-male, female-on-female, male-on-female.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What is Sexual Violence?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Many people in our society hold false ideas about sexual violence. Too often, blame for rape is shifted from the offender to the victim. The reality is that sexual violence can be hard to talk about. Many men, women and children are silenced and unsupported.<\/p>\n<p>There are many types of sexual violence.\u00a0 Not all include physical contact between the victim and the perpetrator (person who harms someone else).\u00a0 The range of sexual violence includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Rape<\/li>\n<li>Sexual Assault<\/li>\n<li>Incest<\/li>\n<li>Sexual Exploitation<\/li>\n<li>Unwanted or Inappropriate Sexual Contact<\/li>\n<li>Sexual Harassment<\/li>\n<li>Exposure<\/li>\n<li>Threats<\/li>\n<li>Stalking\/Cyberstalking<\/li>\n<li>Peeping<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Sexual violence is a crime.\u00a0 It is <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">not<\/span> motivated by uncontrollable sexual desire; it is motivated by the need to control, humiliate, or harm. Perpetrators of sexual violence use sex as a weapon to dominate and hurt others. Most survivors of sexual violence knew their perpetrators before the assault.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;Was I raped?&#8221;][vc_column_text]So, how can you figure if what happened was rape? These questions might help you to assess and understand what happened.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Were the participants old enough to consent?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The minimum age of consent in Ireland is 17 years. People below this age are considered children and cannot legally agree to have sex. In other words, even if the child or teenager says yes, the law says no.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Did both people have the capacity to consent?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Those with diminished capacity \u2014 for example, some people with learning or physical\u00a0 disabilities, some elderly people and people who have been drugged, are intoxicated or are unconscious \u2014 may not have the legal ability to agree to have sex.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Did both participants agree to take part?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Did someone use physical force to make you have sexual contact with him\/her? Has someone threatened you to make you have intercourse with them? If so, it is rape.<\/p>\n<p>It doesn\u2019t matter if you think your partner means yes, or if you\u2019ve already started having sex \u2014 \u201cNo\u201d also means \u201cStop.\u201d If you proceed despite your partner\u2019s expressed instruction to stop, you have not only violated basic codes of morality and decency, you may have also committed a crime under the law.<\/p>\n<p><strong>I didn\u2019t resist physically \u2013 does that mean it isn\u2019t rape?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>People respond to an assault in different ways. Just because you didn\u2019t resist physically doesn\u2019t mean it wasn\u2019t rape \u2014 in fact, many victims make the good judgment that physical resistance would cause the attacker to become more violent.<\/p>\n<p>Lack of consent can be <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">expressed<\/span> (saying \u201cno\u201d) or it can be <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">implied<\/span> from the circumstances (for example, if you were under the statutory age of consent, or if you had a mental defect, or if you were afraid to object because the perpetrator threatened you with serious physical injury).<\/p>\n<p><strong>I used to date the person who assaulted me \u2013 does that mean it isn\u2019t rape?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Rape can occur when the offender and the victim have a pre-existing relationship, however slight (sometimes called \u201cdate rape\u201d or \u201cacquaintance rape\u201d), or even when the offender is the victim\u2019s spouse.<\/p>\n<p>It does not matter whether the other person is an ex-boyfriend or a complete stranger, and it doesn\u2019t matter if you\u2019ve had sex in the past. If it is non-consensual this time, it is rape.<\/p>\n<p><strong>I don\u2019t remember the assault \u2013 does that mean it isn\u2019t rape?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Just because you don\u2019t remember being assaulted doesn\u2019t necessarily mean it didn\u2019t happen and that it wasn\u2019t rape. Memory loss can be an effect of trauma, or can ingestion of drugs and alcohol can cause some memory loss.<\/p>\n<p><strong>I was asleep or unconscious when it happened \u2013 does that mean it isn\u2019t rape?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Rape can happen when the victim was unconscious or asleep. If you were asleep or unconscious, then you didn\u2019t give consent. And if you didn\u2019t give consent, then it is rape.<\/p>\n<p><strong>I was drunk or they were drunk &#8211; does that mean it isn&#8217;t rape?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Alcohol and drugs are not an excuse \u2013 or an alibi. The key question is still: did you consent or not? Regardless of whether you were drunk or sober, if the sex is nonconsensual, it is rape. Both people must be conscious and willing participants.<\/p>\n<p><strong>I thought \u201cno,\u201d but didn\u2019t say it. Is it still rape?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It depends on the circumstances. If you didn\u2019t say no because you were legitimately scared for your life or safety, then it would likely be considered rape. Sometimes it isn\u2019t safe to resist, physically or verbally. Other times you may just lose your voice or your ability to protest. You may involuntarily freeze as a trauma response.<\/p>\n<p>You may feel violated and hurt and perhaps need help to determine what stopped you saying \u201cNo\u201d .[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;I have just been raped, what can I do?&#8221;][vc_column_text]<strong>Safety<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Try to be somewhere that feels safe to you, and if possible contact someone who you can trust to be with you. If you feel you are in immediate danger, dial 999.<\/li>\n<li>You do not have to make a decision right away about whether or not to report what has happened to you. But you might decide to at a later time, so do keep the clothes you were wearing at the time (do not wash them) in a bag.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Your Wellbeing<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Try to keep warm and drink plenty of fluids, if you are in danger of going into shock.<\/li>\n<li>If you are physically injured, go to your GP or your nearest Emergency Department.<\/li>\n<li>If there is a possibility of pregnancy, you can use emergency contraception. The morning after pill, which is effective for up to 72 hours later is available from pharmacies.<\/li>\n<li>If you are worried about sexually transmitted diseases, you can get confidential advice and treatment from your nearest STI clinic.\u00a0 (Mayo\u2019s public STI clinic operates on Tuesday mornings in Mayo University Hospital and appointments are available by calling 087 451 8971.<\/li>\n<li>SATU (Sexual Assault Treatment Units) also provide this service, along with holistic care in the aftermath of a rape or sexual assault, even if you do not want to report the incident to the Gardai. Find your closest SATU here.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Talk<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Talk to someone about what has happened.<\/li>\n<li>The National 24- hour Rape Crisis helpline number is 1800 778 888 should you wish to speak to someone who can support and advise you.<\/li>\n<li>You can call also call the Mayo Rape Crisis the helpline (1800 234 900), or contact your nearest Rape Crisis Centre.<\/li>\n<li>Or talk to a friend or family member, someone you trust to support you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Reporting<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you want to report the assault, contact the Gardai so that they can arrange to get you to your nearest Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU). You can find a list of SATUs here.<\/li>\n<li>In order that as much evidence as possible can be collected, it is best to not wash, eat or drink until after the examination.<\/li>\n<li>If you change your clothes, put them in a bag to give to the Garda.<\/li>\n<li>Tell the Garda if you think you may have been drugged or your drink \u2018spiked\u2019. They will arrange for blood and urine tests.<\/li>\n<li>You may not feel like reporting now, but you might in time. So keep the clothes you were wearing at the time of the assault, don\u2019t wash them and put them in a plastic bag.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you wash yourself, use safe products, not household cleaning products as they can be harmful.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;What should I expect if I want to report my abuse\/rape to the Gardai?&#8221;][nectar_btn size=&#8221;large&#8221; open_new_tab=&#8221;true&#8221; button_style=&#8221;regular&#8221; button_color_2=&#8221;Extra-Color-1&#8243; icon_family=&#8221;none&#8221; text=&#8221;Rape Crisis Network Ireland Information&#8221; url=&#8221;#&#8221; margin_right=&#8221;20px&#8221;][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;I don\u2019t want to report my rape\/assault to the Gardai right now, what can I do?&#8221;][vc_column_text]You do not need to decide immediately whether to report the assault. To give yourself the option of doing so at a future point, you can attend the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) in Galway (link as above).<\/p>\n<p>If you are not sure about reporting the rape or assault, you can arrange a medical and forensic examination with SATU, where the evidence can be stored for a year and you can decide on contacting the Gardai.You do not need to decide immediately whether to report the assault. To give yourself the option of doing so at a future point, you can attend the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) in Galway (link as above).<\/p>\n<p>If you are not sure about reporting the rape or assault, you can arrange a medical and forensic examination with SATU, where the evidence can be stored for a year and you can decide on contacting the Gardai.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;What is a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU)?&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Sexual Aassault Treatment Units (SATU)<\/h3>\n<p>A Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) is a safe place to go if you have been sexually assaulted. SATUs are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. SATUs offer medical or forensic examinations.<\/p>\n<p>The closest SATU is based in Galway:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Galway SATU, The Willow Centre, Faustina House, IDA Small Business Centre, Tuam Road, Galway<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Phone:<\/strong> 091 76 57 51 or 087 63 38 118 weekdays from 8am to 4pm.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Phone:<\/strong> 091 75 76 31 or 091 524222 after 4pm and weekends, ask for SATU.<\/p>\n<p>If you have reported the incident to the Garda\u00ed, they will arrange your appointment and help you get to the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU).<br \/>\nOtherwise, please call your local SATU before you arrive, so they can<br \/>\nhelp you make the best plan for your care, give you directions and make sure someone is there to meet you. If you are under 18 years of age you must have a parent or legal guardian with you to give permission for a forensic examination. Someone from Mayo Rape Crisis Centre can accompany you to the SATU, should you wish.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\n<h3>What happens at SATU?<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=&#8221;large&#8221; open_new_tab=&#8221;true&#8221; button_style=&#8221;regular&#8221; button_color_2=&#8221;Extra-Color-1&#8243; icon_family=&#8221;none&#8221; text=&#8221;About SATU&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www2.hse.ie\/services\/sexual-assault-treatment-units\/sexual-assault-treatment-units.html&#8221; margin_right=&#8221;20px&#8221;][nectar_btn size=&#8221;large&#8221; open_new_tab=&#8221;true&#8221; button_style=&#8221;see-through-2&#8243; color_override=&#8221;#b8d684&#8243; hover_color_override=&#8221;#b8d684&#8243; hover_text_color_override=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; icon_family=&#8221;none&#8221; text=&#8221;Find your nearest SATU&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www2.hse.ie\/services\/sexual-assault-treatment-units\/where-to-find.html&#8221;][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;What is child abuse?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Sexual abuse is an inappropriate sexual behaviour towards a child. Child Sexual Abuse occurs when a child under 16 years of age is used by an adult or older child in a sexual way. The abuser is usually someone 3 or more years older or physically more developed than the survivor. It can be an older child.<\/p>\n<p>Sexual Abuse can be non-contact abuse (e.g., exposure to pornography, inappropriate comments\u00a0 exhibitionism , voyeurism) or contact abuse (e.g., genital\/anal fondling, oral sex). This may include: touching genitals; penetration of the genitals with fingers, penis or objects; rape; tongue kissing; genital exposure; the viewing of pornographic videos; and\/or coercion into nudity and masturbation for the adult\u2019s gratification.<\/p>\n<p>Sexual Play between children of the same age is not likely to be harmful because of the children\u2019s equal power and development.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How does the child feel about the abuse?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A child may immediately have misgivings or a feeling of repulsion when the abuse begins. In other cases, initially the abuse may not be frightening at the time. It is often portrayed by the abuser as a \u201csecret\u201d or \u201cgame\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>The child often does not realise the inappropriateness of the behaviour. The child may participate willingly because it fills their need for:\u00a0 attention (special), love, physical contact, and at times the abuse may be pleasurable.<\/p>\n<p>Initially the offender seldom uses threats and physical forces, because, physical harm leaves visible evidence that could lead to discovery the offender is someone the child has been taught to trust children are taught to be obedient and that adults know what is best for them. If a child realises the inappropriateness of the abuse, the child may feel:<\/p>\n<p>betrayed by the trusted offender, betrayed by the rest of the family who have failed to stop the abuse,guilt and responsibility for letting the abuse go on; they may blame themselves.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why doesn\u2019t the child end the abuse by telling someone?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>There are many reasons why a child may not tell. Some of these include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Often when the child realises that the abuse is wrong, the child may start to resist the abuser. The abuser will then usually begin to use threats and physical force. The threats are usually guilt-laden, with consequences if the child tells.<\/li>\n<li>The child may not tell because of their own sense of guilt.<\/li>\n<li>The child may not tell because they feel they want to protect their family, especially younger siblings.<\/li>\n<li>The child may be embarrassed and not know where to turn.<\/li>\n<li>The child may not have the words or have anyone to tell.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Effects of Child Sexual Abuse<\/h4>\n<p><strong>Physical \u00a0(evident in only a small percentage of cases):<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>presence in the mouth, vagina, or rectum of some type of sexually transmitted disease.<\/li>\n<li>anal\/oral\/genital tissue damage.<\/li>\n<li>pregnancy.<\/li>\n<li>bloodstains on underwear.<\/li>\n<li>bruising on genital areas.<\/li>\n<li>pain experienced in urination or elimination.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Behavioural<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>eating, sleeping, and bowel\/bladder disturbances<\/li>\n<li>regressive behaviour (acting like a much younger child e.g., bedwetting)<br \/>\nexcessive crying<\/li>\n<li>excessive masturbatory behaviour in small children<\/li>\n<li>irritability, crankiness, short-tempered behaviour<\/li>\n<li>too sophisticated knowledge about sexual acts for the child\u2019s age<\/li>\n<li>excessive attempts to manipulate the genitals of others<\/li>\n<li>school problems e.g., change in behaviour at school<\/li>\n<li>phobias, fears<\/li>\n<li>secretive behaviour<\/li>\n<li>compulsive behaviours (e.g., taking an excessive number of baths)<\/li>\n<li>acting-out behaviours (e.g., truancy, running away etc.)<\/li>\n<li>promiscuity<\/li>\n<li>prostitution<\/li>\n<li>alienation from other family members<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse<\/h4>\n<p>Child sexual abuse is such a traumatic violation, that it&#8217;s victims often forget that it occurred. But the emotional scars live on, confusing in their seeming meaninglessness. Ongoing problems with relationships, sex, trust, touch, addictions, paralyzing depression, and guilt can, when the cause is unknown, feel crazy and out of control.<\/p>\n<p>Below are some of the ongoing effects of child sexual abuse. These problems are actually desperate attempts to cope with the impossible pain.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fear of being alone in the dark, fear of sleeping alone, nightmares or night terrors (especially of pursuit, threat or entrapment)<\/li>\n<li>Alienation from body, not at home in own body, failure to heed signals of body, failure to take care of body, poor body image, manipulating body size to avoid sexual attention<\/li>\n<li>Gastrointestinal problems, GYN disorders (including spontaneous vaginal infections), headaches, arthritis or joint pain<\/li>\n<li>Eating disorders, drug\/ alcohol abuse (or total abstinence), other addictions, compulsive behaviors<\/li>\n<li>Skin carving, self abuse (physical pain is manageable), self-destructive<\/li>\n<li>Phobias<\/li>\n<li>Suicidal thoughts, attempts, obsessions (including passive suicide)<\/li>\n<li>Depression (sometimes paralyzing), seemingly baseless crying<\/li>\n<li>Anger issues, inability to recognize own or expressed anger, fear of actual or imagined rage, constant anger, intense hostility toward entire gender or ethnic group of the perpetrator<\/li>\n<li>Splitting (depersonalization), going into shock, shutdown in a crisis or stressful situation, always in a crisis, psychic numbing, physical pain or numbness associated with a particular memory or emotion (e.g. anger) or situation (e.g. sex)<\/li>\n<li>Trust issues, inability to trust (trust is not safe), trusting indiscriminately<\/li>\n<li>High risk taking (&#8220;daring the fates&#8221;), inability to take risks<\/li>\n<li>Boundary issues, control, power, territorial issues, fear of losing control, obsessive\/compulsive behaviors (attempting to control things that don\u2019t matter just to control something), power\/sex confusion<\/li>\n<li>Guilt\/shame\/low self esteem\/feeling worthless\/high appreciation of small favors by others<\/li>\n<li>Pattern of being a victim (victimizing oneself after being victimized by others), especially sexually, no sense of own power or right to set limits or say &#8220;no&#8221;, patterns of relationships with much older persons (onset in adolescence)<\/li>\n<li>Feeling demand to &#8220;produce to be loved&#8221;, instinctively knowing and doing whatever the other person needs or wants, relationships mean big trade-off\u2019s (&#8220;love&#8221; was taken, not given)<\/li>\n<li>Abandonment issues<\/li>\n<li>Blocking out some period of early years (especially 1 \u2013 12) or a specific person or event or place<\/li>\n<li>Feeling crazy, feeling different, feeling oneself to be unreal and everyone else to be real or vice versa, creating fantasy worlds, relationships or identities (especially for women: imagining\/wishing self to be male i.e. not a victim)<\/li>\n<li>Denial, no awareness at all, repression of memories, pretending, minimizing (it wasn\u2019t that bad), having dreams or memories (maybe it\u2019s my imagination \u2013 these are actually flashbacks, which is how recall begins), strong, deep, &#8220;inappropriate&#8221; negative reactions to a person, place or event, sensory flashes (a light, a place, a physical feeling), without any sense of their meaning, remembering surroundings but not the actual event.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Sexual issues<\/b>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Sex feels dirty<\/li>\n<li>Aversion to being touched especially in GYN exams.<\/li>\n<li>Strong aversion to (or need for) particular sex acts.<\/li>\n<li>Feeling betrayed by one\u2019s body, trouble integrating sexuality and emotionality, confusion or overlapping of affection\/sex\/dominance\/aggression\/violence.<\/li>\n<li>Having to pursue power in sexual arena, which is actually sexual acting out.<\/li>\n<li>Compulsively &#8220;seductive&#8221; or compulsively asexual.<\/li>\n<li>Impersonal &#8220;promiscuous&#8221; sex with strangers concurrent with inability to have sex in intimate relationships.<\/li>\n<li>Sexual addiction.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;How do I tell someone I&#8217;ve been raped or sexually abused?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Telling someone that you have been raped or sexually abused can be very hard but it is really important that you tell someone so you can get support. Pick someone that you trust and feel comfortable with, tell them in a place where you feel safe and in control. Only tell them as much as you want to and at your own pace.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;What are the effects of rape?&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Effects of rape &#8211;\u00a0Emotional<\/h3>\n<p>These are some of the <strong>feelings<\/strong> you may experience:<\/p>\n<p><strong>SHOCK<br \/>\n<\/strong>Disbelief at what has happened<br \/>\nNumbness, the event may seem unreal, like a dream<br \/>\nShaking, crying, laughing<br \/>\nSlow comprehension of what has happened<br \/>\nMay occur immediately, or sometime later<\/p>\n<p><strong>FEARS<br \/>\n<\/strong>Of a recurrence of the event<br \/>\nOf damage to oneself, or of death<br \/>\nAwareness of personal vulnerability<br \/>\nPanicky, irrational feelings<br \/>\nOther, apparently unrelated, fears<br \/>\nThat others will blame or reject you, or may not believe you<\/p>\n<p><strong>ANGER<br \/>\n<\/strong>At the rapist<br \/>\nPerhaps at yourself or others for \u201callowing it to happen\u201d<br \/>\nAt your feelings of powerlessness<br \/>\nAt the unfairness and senselessness of it all; generalised anger and hostility may be directed towards all men<\/p>\n<p><strong>SHAME<br \/>\n<\/strong>Feeling that there is something basically wrong with you, that you somehow deserved what happened<br \/>\nFor not having reacted as you would have wished<\/p>\n<p><strong>HELPLESSNESS<br \/>\n<\/strong>Feelings of powerlessness and being out of control of your life<br \/>\nInability to make any decisions<\/p>\n<p><strong>GUILT<br \/>\n<\/strong>Feeling responsible, a long list of \u201cif only\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>SADNESS<br \/>\n<\/strong>For the loss of the belief that the world is safe and predictable<br \/>\nAbout human destruction and loss of every kind<br \/>\nFor loss of the life you had before the rape changed everything<\/p>\n<h3>Behavioural<\/h3>\n<p>These are some of the common <strong>effects on behaviour<\/strong> that can be expressed in many ways and in various combinations:<\/p>\n<p><b>TENSION<br \/>\n<\/b>More easily startled, general agitation (physical and\/or mental)<\/p>\n<p><b>SLEEP DISTURBANCES<br \/>\n<\/b>Inability to sleep, thoughts that prevent sleep, replaying the event<br \/>\nWanting to sleep all the time<br \/>\nDreams\/nightmares of the rape, or other vivid and frightening events<\/p>\n<p><b>FEARFULNESS<br \/>\n<\/b>Of the place, reminders of the incident<br \/>\nOf men, or even people generally<br \/>\nOf going out of your own home<br \/>\nOf being alone<\/p>\n<p><b>INTRUSIVE MEMORIES AND FEELINGS<br \/>\n<\/b>Flashbacks which interfere with concentration and daily life<br \/>\nAttempts to shut them out which leads to deadening of feelings and thoughts<\/p>\n<p><b>IRRITABILITY<br \/>\n<\/b>Frequent mood swings<\/p>\n<p><b>DEPRESSION<br \/>\n<\/b>Loss of interest in life, a sense of meaninglessness<br \/>\nLethargy<\/p>\n<p><b>SOCIAL WITHDRAWAL<br \/>\n<\/b>Wanting to be alone<br \/>\nA reluctance to talk or associate with anyone[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][\/toggles][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_background&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;5%&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;text-col-with-space-divider&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-offset-1 vc_col-lg-10&#8243;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Our Services &#8211; FAQs&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; use_theme_fonts=&#8221;yes&#8221;][toggles style=&#8221;minimal&#8221; accordion=&#8221;true&#8221; accordion_starting_functionality=&#8221;closed&#8221;][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;What will happen when I contact Mayo Rape Crisis Centre?&#8221;][vc_column_text]When you call Mayo rape crisis centre, you will speak directly to our helpline staff. You can speak for as long as you need to and you can end the call when you are ready.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Do I have to tell the whole story?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You can decide what you tell us and what you don&#8217;t. It&#8217;s up to you. Our staff are there to listen and support you. What you reveal is totally up to you. You are the expert on your life. If you think you&#8217;ll freak out or get stuck for words, maybe write down what you want to say before you pick up the phone. Sometimes just saying\u2026&#8221;I need some help&#8221; is enough.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Can I trust them?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Your call can be anonymous and in most cases it will be confidential. That means you don&#8217;t have to give your name if you don&#8217;t want to and no one will find out what you have talked about. The only time someone might find out is if you or someone else is currently in danger of being assaulted or harmed. If this is the case you might need help to stay safe, we will tell you first before we tell anyone else&#8230;. we want you to feel fully in control of the situation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What happens next?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If you feel ready you can come in and meet with a counsellor. It is helpful to talk with counsellors who have special training in the area of sexual violence and who can help you find ways to cope with and understand what you have experienced. It does not matter whether that experience was recent or in the past, it is never too late to get\u00a0 help and support to deal with the impact of these traumatic experiences.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;Who can access our services?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Any person over the age of 16 years who has suffered any form of sexual violence can attend our service. Anyone supporting a victim, be it a partner, parent, sibling or friend can also get help and support .[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;How much do services cost?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Our service is completely free.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;Is the service confidential?&#8221;][vc_column_text]The relationship between the client and counsellor is based on confidentiality and trust. We aim to provide a supportive environment where you will not be judged or put under pressure to talk about anything you are not ready to talk about.<\/p>\n<p>Your call can be anonymous and in most cases it will be confidential. That means you don&#8217;t have to give your name if you don&#8217;t want to and no one will find out what you have talked about. The only time someone might find out is if you or someone else is currently in danger of being assaulted or harmed. If this is the case you might need help to stay safe, we will tell you first before we tell anyone else -we want you to feel fully in control of the situation.<\/p>\n<p>Our confidentiality policy will be discussed in detail at your initial session.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;What is counselling?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Counselling is a one-to-one relationship which provides the support and encouragement necessary to allow someone talk about experiences and events which have affected their lives and their way of being in the world. It is the role of the counsellor to offer a safe and confidential space to enable a person to get in touch with and express whatever thoughts and feelings that are necessary for them to move on in their lives.<\/p>\n<p>The counsellors at Mayo Rape Crisis Centre are specialists, and are trained to listen deeply to men and women who have been affected by sexual violence, irrespective of when this violence happened. They will listen in a respectful and non-judgmental way, enabling you to explore your feelings at your own pace, and in your own time.<\/p>\n<p>A counselling session typically lasts for an hour and we recommend making a commitment to attend for six sessions initially. You will then, along with your counsellor, be invited to review how it is going for you and to decide if you would like to continue.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;Is there a waiting list for counselling?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Unfortunately due to the high demand for our free counselling, we are currently operating a waiting list therefore there can be a delay of a few months after your initial appointment before you begin counselling with us.<\/p>\n<p>However, once you make contact with us, we will keep in touch with you and do everything possible to reduce the waiting time. We do give priority to recent rapes and sexual assault.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;How long\/often should I attend counselling?&#8221;][vc_column_text]The duration of counselling is different for everyone and there is no limit on the amount of sessions you can have. Typically, sessions are once a week, or once a fortnight, depending on your needs.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;Will I have to talk about my abuse\/rape in detail?&#8221;][vc_column_text]You can decide what you tell us and what you don&#8217;t. What you reveal is totally up to you &#8211; you are the expert on your life and you can decide what you are comfortable sharing, or not &#8211; our staff are there to listen and support you regardless. If you think you might panic or get stuck for words, maybe write down what you want to say before you pick up the phone. Sometimes just saying &#8220;I need some help&#8221; is enough.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;I don\u2019t know if what happened was a sexual violation. Can I get help?&#8221;][vc_column_text]It is very common for survivors to not be fully able to understand what happened to them or how they feel about it, especially if it doesn&#8217;t match up with the concept they had in their head about what would or would not be a violation. Often it is hard for people to understand that physical violence is not always used in sexual assaults. The assault itself is still considered an act of violence. It is important to understand that any sort of unwanted sexual encounters or unwanted sexualised actions are considered sexual violations.<\/p>\n<h4>Was I raped?<\/h4>\n<p><strong>Were the participants old enough to consent?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In Ireland, the age of consent is 17 years of age. People below this age are considered children and cannot legally agree to have sex. In other words, even if the child or teenager says yes, the law says no.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Did both people have the capacity to consent?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Someone cannot consent to sex if they are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Under the age of 17<\/li>\n<li>Under use or threat of physical violence or death<\/li>\n<li>Unconscious, unaware, or mentally incapacitated<\/li>\n<li>Under the influence of alcohol or drugs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Did both participants agree to take part?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Did someone use physical force to make you have sexual contact with him\/her? Has someone threatened you to make you have intercourse with them? If so, it is rape.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The absence of a \u201cno\u201d is not the presence of a \u201cyes.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If you proceed despite your partner\u2019s expressed instruction to stop, you have not only violated basic codes of morality and decency, you may have also committed a crime under the laws.<\/p>\n<p><strong>I was drunk or on drugs-does that mean it wasn\u2019t rape?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Alcohol and drugs are not an excuse\u2014or an alibi. The key question is still whether or not you consented. Regardless of whether you were drunk or sober, if the sex is non-consensual, it is rape.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;What if I don&#8217;t remember all the details?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Trauma can affect our ability to accurately recall what happened in the case of a sexual assault or rape. This is a perfectly normal response. The healing process is not like a law enforcement investigation; evidence is not the focus. It is more important to concentrate on healing and your wellbeing.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;My assault happened a long time ago\/when I was a child. Can I still get help?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Rape isn&#8217;t always something you can heal from in a couple of months. You may need face-to-face counseling to help with the effects of rape like flashbacks and any other PTSD symptoms that may be going on. Contacting a Rape Crisis Centre or your GP can be the first step to getting this help. Generally, putting it out of your mind won&#8217;t help forever. It will for the short term but then symptoms can return and start to intrude on your life. We suggest you talk someone with experience in abuse issues so you may heal as fully as possible.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;Will I see the same counsellor each time?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Clients of Mayo Rape Crisis Centre will always see the same counsellor and will be able to develop a trusting relationship with that person.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;Someone I know was raped or abused, and I want to support them. What should I do?&#8221;][vc_column_text]There are lots of things you can do to support your friend. Keep in mind that hearing about their experience might be really hard for you and you don&#8217;t have to be their counsellor. If your friend is talking to you, here are some things that might help:<\/p>\n<p>Let your friend know right away that you care and want to help.<\/p>\n<p>Be a good listener. Don&#8217;t press for details or ask a lot of questions &#8211; let your friend decide what and when they feel comfortable telling you about the assault and its impact.<\/p>\n<p>Believe your friend. It takes courage to talk about a sexual assault with other people. Many people remain silent because they feel ashamed and\/or they fear that they will be disbelieved or blamed if they tell other people about what happened to them.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t blame them. In our society, it&#8217;s pretty common for victims to be blamed for the assault. Try to avoid questions like &#8216;why did you go there&#8217; and &#8216;why did you go out with them&#8217; because they might make your friend think they are responsible for what happened. Instead, it could be good to remind them they are not responsible for what happened. For example, &#8220;You are not to blame for this&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>Encourage your friend to make their own decisions and choices. This is one way for a sexual assault victim to regain a sense of personal power and control. For example, let your friend decide if they want to notify the police or contact a rape crisis centre. But, do what you can to assist your friend in getting information about these and other options so they can make informed decisions.<\/p>\n<p>Encourage your friend to get medical care, even if the assault happened a while ago and even if they do not appear to have any physical injuries.<\/p>\n<p>Encourage your friend to phone a rape crisis centre. If your friend is not ready to talk to a counsellor in person,they can call our free helpline at 1800 234 900 and talk with us on the phone. You are also welcome to call for information or to receive support and advice for yourself.<\/p>\n<p>If your friend is willing to report the crime, encourage them to contact the Garda\u00ed as soon as possible. They can help survivors get medical care and resolve concerns about their safety.<\/p>\n<p>Remember that your friend has been through an emotionally painful, traumatic experience. Your friend may act differently after the assault. Some of your friend&#8217;s reactions may be hard to watch, but your &#8220;being there&#8221; for them can help a lot.<\/p>\n<p>Be patient and understanding. The trauma of a sexual assault does not go away quickly. It may take a while for your friend to recover. Sometimes friends and family members expect sexual assault victims to be &#8220;over it&#8221; in a few weeks. Understand that the pain the victim feels, and the symptoms, may last for a long time.<\/p>\n<p>Respect your friend&#8217;s privacy and confidentiality. Don&#8217;t disclose what they tell you to other people. Let your friend decide who they want to confide in.<\/p>\n<p>Take care of yourself, too. If someone you know is raped, you may feel upset. Even if your friend doesn&#8217;t want to talk to a counsellor, you can get support for yourself. Talking to a counsellor can help you understand your own reactions and what you and your friend are going through. A counsellor can also give you ideas about how to help your friend.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;How accessible are your services?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Our building is accessible for wheelchair users and we do have a downstairs counselling room.<\/p>\n<p>Unfortunately, Mayo Rape Crisis Centre does not have a translator service available at present.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;Can I get legal advice through Mayo Rape Crisis Centre?&#8221;][vc_column_text]Yes we can offer you information, support and advocacy for all of the legal process, should you decide to report what happened to you.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][\/toggles][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; disable_element=&#8221;yes&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text]<strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0What is counselling?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The counsellors at Mayo RCC are trained to listen deeply to men and women who have been affected by sexual violence, irrespective of when this violence happened. They will listen in a respectful and non-judgmental way, enabling you to explore your feelings at your own pace, and in your own time.<br \/>\nThe relationship between the client and counsellor is based on confidentiality (except where we believe either you or another is in danger) and trust. We aim to provide a supportive environment where you will not be judged or put under pressure to talk about anything you are not ready to talk about.<br \/>\n*Our confidentiality policy will be discussed in detail at your initial session.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How long is a session?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A counselling session lasts for an hour and we recommend making a commitment to attend for six sessions initially. You will then, along with your counsellor, be invited to review how it is going for you and to decide if you would like to continue.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How much does it cost?<br \/>\n<\/strong>Our service is free.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Who can attend?<br \/>\n<\/strong>Any man or woman over the age of 16yrs who has suffered any form of sexual violence can attend our service.<\/p>\n<p><strong style=\"line-height: 1.3em;\">I felt violated, but I don\u2019t know if what happened was a sexual violation. Can I get counselling?<\/strong><br \/>\nIt is very common for survivors to not be fully able to understand what happened to them or how they feel about it, especially if it doesn&#8217;t match up with the concept they had in their head about what would or would not be a violation. Often it is hard for people to understand that physical violence is not always used in sexual assaults. The assault itself is still considered an act of violence. It is important to understand that any sort of unwanted sexual encounters or unwanted sexualized actions are considered sexual violations.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What if I don&#8217;t remember all the details?<\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.womenscenteryfs.org\/index.php\/faqs\/sexual-assault#what-if-i-don%E2%80%99t-remember-all-the-details\"><br \/>\n<\/a>The healing process is not like a law enforcement investigation; evidence is not the focus. It is more important to concentrate on healing.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do I tell someone I&#8217;ve been raped or sexually abused?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Telling someone that you have been raped or sexually abused can be very hard but it is really important that you tell someone so you can get support. Pick someone that you trust and feel comfortable with, tell them in a place where you feel safe and in control. Only tell them as much as you want to and at your own pace.<\/p>\n<p><strong>My friend got raped and she doesn\u2019t want to tell anyone. I&#8217;m the only one that knows. What should I do?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We would really urge your friend to contact your local Rape Crisis Center or GP for help and guidance. If she can&#8217;t get into a center she can call on the helpline (1800 234 900). You are also free to call for information or to receive support for yourself.<\/p>\n<p><strong>I was raped several months ago and put it out of my mind. Why isn&#8217;t that working anymore? How do I deal with this quickly and effectively?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Rape isn&#8217;t always something you can heal from in a couple of months. You may need face-to-face counseling to help with the effects of rape like flashbacks and any other PTSD symptoms that may be going on. Contacting a Rape Crisis Centre or your GP can be the first step to getting this help. Generally, putting it out of your mind won&#8217;t help forever. It will for the short term but then symptoms can return and start to intrude on your life. We suggest you talk\u00a0someone with experience in abuse issues so you may heal as fully as possible.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How long before I feel better?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Sexual violence is similar to other types of trauma, such as loss of a loved one or physical injury. That means that there is no set time for recovery \u2014 it may take several months or many years. Surviving a rape or sexual assault is a life-changing event, one that changes how you view the world, how you view your relationships, and how you view yourself. We believe victims of sexual violence do recover and are able to move on with their lives.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_background&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;5%&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243;&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":3,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>FAQs - Mayo Rape Crisis Centre<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre offers help and support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence. Call our helpline on 1800 234 900\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"FAQs - Mayo Rape Crisis Centre\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre offers help and support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence. Call our helpline on 1800 234 900\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Mayo-Rape-Crisis-Centre\/120539477965840?fref=ts\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2023-04-04T22:22:30+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/737344dd8934cc52da9f7f85f2627abb.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1600\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1081\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@mayoRCC\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"27 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/\",\"name\":\"FAQs - Mayo Rape Crisis Centre\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2014-11-12T00:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2023-04-04T22:22:30+00:00\",\"description\":\"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre offers help and support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence. Call our helpline on 1800 234 900\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"FAQs\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/\",\"name\":\"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre\",\"description\":\"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre offers help and support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence. Call our helpline on 1800 234 900\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mrcc-logo.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mrcc-logo.png\",\"width\":185,\"height\":103,\"caption\":\"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Mayo-Rape-Crisis-Centre\/120539477965840?fref=ts\",\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/mayoRCC\"]}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"FAQs - Mayo Rape Crisis Centre","description":"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre offers help and support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence. Call our helpline on 1800 234 900","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"FAQs - Mayo Rape Crisis Centre","og_description":"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre offers help and support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence. Call our helpline on 1800 234 900","og_url":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/","og_site_name":"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Mayo-Rape-Crisis-Centre\/120539477965840?fref=ts","article_modified_time":"2023-04-04T22:22:30+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1600,"height":1081,"url":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/737344dd8934cc52da9f7f85f2627abb.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_site":"@mayoRCC","twitter_misc":{"Estimated reading time":"27 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/","url":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/","name":"FAQs - Mayo Rape Crisis Centre","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#website"},"datePublished":"2014-11-12T00:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2023-04-04T22:22:30+00:00","description":"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre offers help and support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence. Call our helpline on 1800 234 900","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/faq-1\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"FAQs"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/","name":"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre","description":"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre offers help and support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence. Call our helpline on 1800 234 900","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#organization","name":"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre","url":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mrcc-logo.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mrcc-logo.png","width":185,"height":103,"caption":"Mayo Rape Crisis Centre"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/Mayo-Rape-Crisis-Centre\/120539477965840?fref=ts","https:\/\/twitter.com\/mayoRCC"]}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mrcc.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}