Acute Intervention to Reduce Distress Following Sexual Assault

Prevention of Post-Rape Psychopathology and Drug Abuse

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a brief intervention in video format delivered in the post assault medical exam setting and including education about assault reactions and instruction in and modeling of successful coping strategies would reduce post assault drug use or abuse and PTSD symptoms as compared to standard care.

The intervention being evaluated was shown at the time of the post assault medical exam and includes two main components: preparation for the medical exam; and information about and modelling of coping strategies that may help women cope in the aftermath of assault. The intervention content is delivered via video. Intervention and standard care groups were compared with regard to measures of substance use and abuse and symptoms of PTSD and other potentially comorbid problems including symptoms of depression or other anxiety.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Seeking medical care after recent sexual assault

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active psychosis
• Active suicidality
• Cognitive impairment
• Non-English speaking
• Severe injury