Date rape drugs are any type of drug used to make rape or sexual assault easier. Oftentimes, someone can put these these drugs into alcoholic drinks without the other person knowing. These drugs, and alcohol, can make a person confused and not remember what is happening to them. It can also make a person less able to defend themselves against unwanted sexual contact. Please know that if you are ever sexually assaulted, it is not your fault.
Date Rape Drugs: Things to Know
What They Look Like
There are a wide variety of date rape drugs out there. In the same way, these drugs come in many different forms. Some are liquids while others may be powders. However, some come in a pill form as well. Many of these drugs are colorless, odorless and tasteless, so you may not be able to know if one is in your drink.
In order to reduce your chance of someone drugging you, there are some steps you can take. First, do not accept drinks from other people. If you want a drink, go directly to the bar and watch the bartender pour your drink, or open the drink yourself. Then, carry it yourself and do not let anyone else touch your drink. Avoid punch bowls, as they could have easily been spiked. Do not drink anything that smells or tastes strange. Although most of these drugs don’t taste or smell, some are bitter or salty. Finally, watch out for your friends and have them watch out for you.
Effects
Date rape drugs can be very powerful. How these drugs will affect you will vary based on the type of drug and whether it is mixed with alcohol. Alcohol can make the effects of these drugs even stronger and more dangerous. Some symptoms include slurred speech, nausea, dizziness, confusion, and sleepiness. Additionally, you can have difficulties controlling your muscles or breathing, and could even pass out.
What Should You Do
If you think you may have been drugged and raped, you should get medical care right away. Call 911 or have a trusted friend take you to a hospital emergency room. Before getting to the hospital, try not to use the restroom, wash yourself or your hands, brush your teeth or hair, consume anything, or change clothes. There may be pieces of evidence of the assault on your clothes or body. Also, the hospital can run tests to see if there are date rape drugs in your system.
After a sexual assault, you may feel fear, shame, guilt, or shock. All of these feelings are normal. Each survivor may feel different emotions at different times. This is part of the healing process. Even if you wanted to drink alcohol or take drugs at the time, sexual assault is never your fault. You may be afraid to think about talking about the assault, but it is important to get help. The National Sexual Assault Hotline, 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), is an organization that you can call for help. These calls are free and confidential.