Sexual Assault and Young Women: healing as a dependent child

We all are aware that healing from sexual assault is a long, difficult process.  I have noticed however, that there are several specific barriers facing teenage/young adult victims who are still dependent on their caretakers’ support.  I would like to highlight a few and ask the community what could be done.

(1) Access to healthcare is mediated by various authorities that may not be sympathetic.  Lacking personal funding and transportation makes it near impossible to obtain appropriate care on your own.  Alternately, young women may be forced to submit to unwanted medical intervention from insensitive practitioners.

(2) An adult’s word is often taken over that of the young woman.  This extends well past reporting of the assault itself.  A young woman’s struggles are often viewed primarily in light of how they affect the adults around her rather than her own well-being.

(3) Society is very reluctant to acknowledge problems in young people.  Young women are frequently branded as overly emotional or informed that they don’t have "real problems".  Emotional expression is considered selfish, attention-seeking, and/or dramatic.

(4) A safe space to heal can be much harder for young women.  Choices of where to go and who to be around are often made by others.  Caretakers often invade privacy in various ways. Schedules are usually dictated by someone else, often 24/7.  Reliable time to sit down and process is difficult, and it may not be possible to seek out supporters.

I’m not sure what should or could be done here.  Any ideas?