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When people think of rape, they might think of a stranger jumping out of a shadowy place and sexually attacking someone. But it's not only strangers who rape. Actually, many people who have been raped already knew the person who attacked them. Getting to know others is an important and exciting part of life. Most friendships, acquaintances, and dates never lead to violence, of course. Sadly, sometimes this happens. When forced sex occurs between two people who already know each other, it is known as date or acquaintance rape. Even if the two people know each other well, and even if they were intimate before, no one has the right to force a sexual act on another against his or her will. You can be raped or sexually assaulted by someone who you're in a relationship with and this is an unhealthy relationship.
The involvement of alcohol and drugs
Alcohol use is involved in many date rapes because drinking can loosen people's inhibitions, dull common sense and, for some, bring out sexually aggressive behaviour. A teen using alcohol will find many situations when it becomes harder to use good judgment, to be cautious, or to protect themselves from unplanned pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection.
When we go out we all need to think about our own personal safety as well as enjoying ourselves and having fun. Unfortunately there are some people out there who may spike your drink with alcohol or other drugs, resulting in you feeling unexpectedly drunk or feeling the effects of that drug. This is usually done with intent to assault, rob or sexually assault you. It is important that you:
- buy your own drinks or watch the person buying your drink and don’t accept drinks from anyone you don’t trust
- are the only person who handles your drink
- don’t leave your drink unattended
- are aware non-alcoholic drinks can be spiked too
Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks can be spiked. Often drinks are spiked with alcohol or drugs such as Rohypnol or GHB. Rohypnol is also known as ‘roofies’, ‘R-2’, the ‘forget pill’ or the ‘date rape drug’. This is an odourless and colourless drug that can be slipped into drinks, making people pass out or temporarily lose their memory. When Rohypnol and alcohol are mixed together it can increase the feeling of drunkenness and lower inhibitions.
You should report all incidents of sexual assault or drink spiking to the police as soon as possible. They will be experienced in dealing with victims of sexual assaults and will understand your feelings of:
- distress
- fear
- confusion
There is also counselling available that can help you gain a better understanding of your problem or situation and may help you find the answers to the problems you may be experiencing as a result of sexual assault. SERICC offers support to women and girls over 13 years old who have been raped, sexually assaulted, experienced child sexual abuse, sexual harassment or who have experienced any form of sexual violence or attempted sexual assault in Thurrock, Basildon and Brentwood.
The Roofie Foundation - 0800 783 2980 (9am-9pm) Support for drug assisted rape
Childline – 0800 1111
South Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Centre
Offering support to women and girls in South Essex by promoting self- confidence, self-respect, physical and emotional well-being.
The Site
Support and for guidance for young adults through life.
Get Connected
Free confidential help for young people.
The Roofie Foundation
The Roofie Foundation is Britain’s only agency dealing with the issues surrounding Drug Facilitated Sexual Abuse (DFSA) through drink spiking.
Need 2 Know
Further information on how to: avoid being spiked; tell if you have been spiked and what to do if you have been raped.
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