Handle sexually difficult situations

You can experience sexually difficult situations whatever your gender or sexual orientation. These experiences range from someone not respecting your boundaries to an unplanned pregnancy. If you know what your options are, you'll have the power to make good decisions and get the support you need.

I think I'm pregnant. What should I do?

  1. Get tested. You can buy a pregnancy test from any pharmacy. If you can't afford a pregnancy test, go to a doctor. They'll test you for free.
  2. Talk to someone about your options and how you're feeling. Find a supportive person or a professional to talk to. You can also call the Pregnancy Options Referral Service at 1–888–875–3163. Your options include (in alphabetical order):
    • Abortion
    • Adoption
    • Parenting
  3. Make a decision. You can read more about your options and choose to discuss this with your partner, family, or friends, but this has to be a decision that's right for you and made by you.

What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault is an act of violence where any form of sexual contact is forced upon another person. It can happen to anyone of any gender and it can happen in a relationship, with someone you know or with a stranger. You never deserve to be sexually assaulted.

I've been sexually assaulted. What can I do?

  1. Know it's not your fault.
  2. Go to a safe place.
  3. Report the incident to the police. If you're worried about talking to the police call VictimLink BC.
  4. Talk to someone you trust like a friend, foster parent, family member, or professional.
  5. Go to a hospital, walk-in clinic, or your doctor for a medical examination as soon as possible.

What support can I get?

Financial support

If you need financial help, you can apply to the Crime Victim Assistance Program.

The program can help you pay for:

  • Medical and dental treatment
  • Prescriptions
  • Counselling
  • Protective measures
  • Replacing damaged eyeglasses, clothing, and disability aids
  • Living expenses if you can't work
  • Transportation
  • Funeral expenses

Emotional support

You can get emotional support from VictimLink BC. The organization provides information, referrals, and crisis support to victims of family and sexual violence.

How can I stay safe?

Here are some tips to keep yourself safe and avoid dangerous situations.

  • Be aware of your surroundings. Knowing where you are and who's around can help you to find a way out of a bad situation.
  • Avoid isolated areas. It's more difficult to get help if no one is around.
  • Walk with purpose. Even if you don't know where you're going, act like you do.
  • Trust your instincts. If a situation or place feels unsafe or uncomfortable, it's probably best to leave.
  • Try to carry a phone, even if it's just for emergencies.
  • Carry cab money so you can leave an unsafe situation.
  • Don't go somewhere alone with someone you don't know or trust.
  • Avoid walking with headphones in both ears so you can be more aware of what's going on around you.
  • Try to stay as sober as possible when alone and in an unfamiliar place.
  • Call someone to talk to if you're somewhere you feel unsafe.
  • Tell someone where you're going and check in when you get home.
  • Go into a store, get to where more people are, or talk to a nearby professional like a bus driver if someone makes you uncomfortable.
  • Wait a while before spending time alone with new people, even if you're interested in dating them.

Insider Tip

Nothing you do asks for any kind or harassment or attack. Experiencing any form of violence is never your fault. These are things we can all do to stay safer.

Watch and learn how to set boundaries and say no:

Watch and learn how to talk to someone who's experienced a sexually difficult situation:


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