Resources for Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse
The way that survivors respond to sexual abuse or violence is complex and highly individual. For many, it can be meaningful and empowering to learn more about child sexual abuse, disclose what they have been through, and pursue litigation in civil courts. If you or a loved one is a survivor of child sexual abuse – you are not alone. There are a number of organizations that provide social support, self-care tools, information, and other helpful resources for survivors.
These are not substitutes for your personal medical treatment or therapy, which we encourage you to pursue independently of any legal action. Please also report your abuse to law enforcement if you are able.
SurvivorSpace – A Safe Place for Survivors of Sexual Abuse to Heal
Here you can listen to others’ survivor stories, explore laws and remedies, connect with fellow survivors through a forum thread or chat group, and explore self-care tools. This site also gives and overview of the civil and criminal litigation processes.
Child USA – The Hamilton Library
The Hamilton Library is a free online library of books, documentaries, articles and online resources. Started in 2016, this library was created with the understanding that knowledge is power. The mission of CHILD USA is to provide resources that empower bchildren now and those who were harmed as children. The more everyone understands, the better for all of us.
Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline
For over 40 years Childhelp has provided crisis intervention, information, and referrals to social services and support. Available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, Childhelp offers options to speak with a counselor, report child abuse, and even direct messages for when a making phone call is too difficult or not possible. Serving over 140 languages,
Call 1-800-422-4453 or text 1-800-422-4463
RAINN—Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network
RAINN is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, provide assistance to survivors, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
The National Sexual Assault Hotline is open 24/7: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673); while online chat and app are available at: RAINN.org; En Espanol: rainn.org/es
National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC)
The mission of the National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC) is to help victims of crime rebuild their lives. The NCVC is dedicated to serving individuals, families, and communities harmed by crime. They provide meaningful resources and services to engage survivors, lift their voices, and effect change.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Lifeline is committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.
On July 16, 2022, the Lifeline transitioned away from the National Suicide Prevention Line reached through a 10-digit number to the three-digit 988 Lifeline. It is funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and administered by Vibrant Emotional Health (Vibrant).
When people call, text, or chat with the 988 Lifeline, they are connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing 988 Lifeline network, made up of over 200 local crisis centers. These counselors are trained to provide free and confidential emotional support and crisis counseling to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, and connect them to resources. These services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, across the United States.
The previous 988 Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.
Dial 988 or 1-800-273-TALK(8255) or 988 24/7 free and confidential support
