Sexual assault is far more common than many people realize. Because it is often surrounded by silence, shame, or fear of not being believed, survivors frequently carry their experiences alone. Bringing accurate information into the open helps reduce stigma, increases awareness, and reminds survivors that what happened to them is not their fault — and that support is available.
How Common Is Sexual Assault?
National data consistently shows that sexual violence affects millions of people across the United States.
- The CDC’s National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey estimates that over 1 in 3 women and nearly 1 in 4 men experience some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime.
- Approximately 1 in 5 women and 1 in 38 men experience rape or attempted rape.
- Sexual assault is also experienced by people of all genders, including transgender and nonbinary individuals, who face disproportionately high rates of violence.
These numbers highlight that sexual assault is not rare — it is a widespread public health issue that affects individuals, families, and communities.
Who Is Most Affected? A Demographic Snapshot
Sexual violence impacts people across all backgrounds, but certain groups face higher risk due to systemic inequities, discrimination, or social vulnerability.
- Women and girls experience the highest rates overall.
- LGBTQ+ individuals, especially transgender women, face significantly elevated risk.
- Young people are particularly vulnerable: the majority of assaults occur before age 25.
- Indigenous women experience some of the highest rates of sexual violence in the U.S.
- People with disabilities are at increased risk due to dependence on caregivers, social isolation, or barriers to reporting.
Understanding these patterns helps communities advocate for prevention, safety, and culturally responsive support.
What to Do If You Experience Sexual Assault
There is no “right” way to respond after an assault. Your safety and wellbeing come first. The following steps are options — not obligations:
- Get to a safe place as soon as possible.
- Seek medical care, even if there are no visible injuries. Medical providers can address health concerns and discuss evidence collection if desired.
- Consider speaking with a trained advocate who can help you understand your options.
- Report the assault only if and when you feel ready. Reporting is a personal choice, and support is available regardless of whether you choose to involve law enforcement.
- Reach out for emotional support, whether through a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.
Survivors deserve care, respect, and autonomy at every step.
How to Support a Loved One Who Has Been Victimized
If someone you care about discloses an assault, your response can profoundly shape their healing process.
- Believe them. Many survivors fear not being taken seriously.
- Listen without pressing for details. Let them share at their own pace.
- Affirm that the assault was not their fault. Responsibility always lies with the perpetrator.
- Offer practical support, such as accompanying them to appointments or helping them access resources.
- Respect their choices. Healing is not linear, and survivors need control over their own decisions.
- Encourage professional support if they are open to it. Counseling can help survivors process trauma, rebuild safety, and reconnect with their sense of self.
Sexual assault is a deeply painful experience, but no one has to navigate its aftermath alone. Compassionate support, trauma‑informed care, and accessible resources can make healing possible — one step at a time.
Denise Fattic is a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor at Greenway Therapy . Learn more about her on her BIO page.
