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Date Rape
Date rape or drug rape is when drugs are given to you without your knowledge,
with the aim of reducing your inhibitions or consciousness to a level
where a sexual assault can take place
The drugs that are used (gamma-hydroxybutryate, or flunitrazepam) can be added to your drink when you are in a pub, club, or even at a party. In alcohol they are odourless, colourless, and tasteless, and cause sedation or euphoria as quickly as 10 minutes after ingestion
We do see students who have had their drinks spiked here in Leeds, but you should also recognise that these drugs are easier to obtain abroad, so you should remain vigilant on foreign holidays
IF YOUR DRINK IS SPIKED
The immediate effects are very similar to being drunk, except that they
occur very quickly. You will know how alcohol affects you, so if you suddenly
feel much drunker, very sleepy, or nauseous, your drink may have been
spiked
If you are with a good friend that you trust, tell them that you think
your drink may have been spiked, and ask them to take you home. Once you
get home ask them to stay with you until the effects of the drug have
gone
If you are alone or with a stranger go to the manager of the pub or club, tell them you believe your drink has been spiked. They should move you somewhere safe (i.e. away from the person that may have spiked your drink), and make arrangements for you to be collected by a friend, or someone you trust
Never let a stranger or someone you do not know well help you, or take you anywhere. That person may be the one who spiked your drink, and you may inadvertently give them the opportunity to take you away from the bar/club and sexually assault you
IF YOU BELIEVE YOU WERE SEXUALLY ASSAULTED
Both date rape drugs cause memory loss, so you may not have any memory
of the previous night when you wake up in the morning. Don't be silent if you think you had sex without consent, the Police
understand this type of crime - consider reporting it as soon as possible
Date rape affects both males and females. Your doctor will be able to offer support and guidance. You will need to think about issues such as emergency contraception, and screening for sexually transmitted infections. You may also need emotional support
Source: LSMP
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