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"The obvious answer is to tell someone and ask for help. If you are under 18 years of age, call your local child protective service agency or social service agency. Talk to your school counselor, nurse, or teacher. Report your situation to a police officer or go to your nearest police station. These people are required by law to investigate your report. Victims of sexual abuse are often afraid that people will think they are making it up, especially if the abuser is a parent and a pillar of the community. Most people will believe you these days. If you call one of the sexual abuse hotlines, you will be referred to professionals who see hundreds of abuse cases and will help you. First, the most effective way to ensure that your case will receive attention is to enlist the support of as many people to help you as you can. Tell a teacher or a coach about your situation and ask them to help. School counselors can be especially helpful because they may know workers in child protection agencies. Second, if you are fairly sure, not just afraid, that you may not be believed, collect as much evidence about your abuse as you can. If you cannot escape immediately, you might be able to hide a small tape recorder in the area where the abuse is taking place. Obviously, you should report your abuse asap and not suffer through more abuse just to obtain evidence. Other evidence is your abusers sperm on your sheets or clothing which can be analyzed in a laboratory. Both sperm and blood type can identify your abuser. Save anything with your blood on it so you will have evidence of what is happening. Take pictures of any bruises or cuts, or have a friend help you. You will have to take people into your confidence because you will need help and support. If you are over 18 and being abused, you situation is somewhat different. Most cities and towns have programs and shelters where you can find counselors and people who have shared your experience and who can give you the support and protection you need to escape from your situation. If you are in immediate danger, call your local sheriff or police department. If you are not related to your abuser, you are protected by the criminal laws against assault and battery and rape. The best route for adult victims is to follow the legal process. Whether you are a minor or an adult, reporting your abuse takes courage. Your life may be unstable for a while after you tell, but you will have people to help you. They will make sure you receive the therapy you will need so that your abuse will not destroy the rest of your life." 
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