Crisis Information
Important information about your rights, time-sensitive medical options, and where to get immediate help.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911
If you are safe but need someone to talk to right now, call 1-800-656-4673 (RAINN) — free, confidential, 24/7.
Call for Help Now
Tap a number to call from your phone. You choose who to call. If you would rather not involve police, 988 and 211 connect you to support without law enforcement.
- 911Emergency
Police, fire, or ambulance. Use this if you are in immediate physical danger or need urgent medical help.
- 988Suicide & Crisis LifelineText 988
Free, confidential support 24/7 if you are in emotional distress or crisis. You can also text 988.
- 211Community Services
Local health and human services: shelter, food, counseling, and referrals. Coverage and hours vary by area.
Calling from a computer? Dial these numbers from any phone. 911, 988, and 211 work across the United States and Canada. 211 is not yet available in every community.
Nearest Emergency Rooms & SANE Programs
Find the closest place for time-sensitive care such as PEP, emergency contraception, and a forensic exam. Any hospital emergency room can help. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) programs have specially trained staff.
Your location is only used to find nearby resources and is never stored.
Time-Sensitive: 72-Hour Window
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
If you may have been exposed to HIV, PEP medication can prevent infection if started within 72 hours. Go to any emergency room and ask for PEP. It is available regardless of your ability to pay.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is most effective within 72 hours. It is available over the counter at pharmacies without a prescription.
Evidence Collection
A sexual assault forensic exam (rape kit) can collect important evidence. You do not have to decide about reporting to use this option. Evidence can be stored while you decide. Try not to shower, change clothes, or eat/drink before the exam if possible.
Your Rights
You have the right to medical care
Emergency rooms must treat you regardless of insurance or immigration status. You have the right to a private examination and a victim advocate.
You do not have to report to police
Getting medical care and an evidence kit does not require a police report. The decision to report is yours alone, and you can make it later.
You have the right to a free advocate
Under federal law, you have the right to a victim advocate at the hospital and throughout any legal proceedings. Advocates provide support and information at no cost.
You are protected from retaliation
Federal and state laws protect you from retaliation by employers, landlords, and schools if you report or seek help. Protections vary by state.
Immediate Help Lines
RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673) — Free, confidential, 24/7. Available in English and Spanish with access to interpreters for 170+ languages.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233) — Free, confidential, 24/7. Chat available at thehotline.org.
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741 — Free, confidential crisis counseling via text message, 24/7.
LGBTQIA+ Support
The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678. Anti-Violence Project: 212-714-1141.
Alternatives to Calling Police
Victim advocacy centers
Local advocacy organizations provide free support, accompaniment, and information without involving law enforcement.
Hospital-based programs
Many hospitals have Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) programs with trained nurses who can provide medical care and evidence collection.
Anonymous reporting
Some jurisdictions allow anonymous reporting that can help track patterns without requiring your identity. Ask a local advocate about options in your area.
Community-based support
Support groups, therapists, and community organizations can provide help and healing outside of the criminal justice system.
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