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How Can I Help?
- Believe the person and accept what you are hearing.
- Listen without judging and let the person tell the story at his/her own pace.
- Ask them what he/she wants you to do for them.
- Provide comfort and support for the person on his/her terms.
- Encourage him/her to seek medical attention.
- Reinforce that the sexual assault was not their fault.
- Suggest calling one of the support resources available. This does not mean that he/she must report the sexual assault to the police.
- Remember that someone who has been sexually assaulted has just experienced a very traumatic event. Reactions may vary from moment to moment.
- Validate the person's feelings (Any or all reactions are normal)
- REMEMBER: ANYONE can be sexually assaulted
- If YOU are having difficulties communicating with the person or coping with your own feelings about the assault, then seek help yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Sexual Assault?
- What Should I Do if I Have Been Sexually Assaulted?
- What Does It Mean To Make a Report?
- What Medical and Counseling Assistance is available?
- How Can I Prevent Sexual Assault?
- What are Some Rape Survivor Reactions?
- How Can I Help?
- What are Date Rape Drugs?
- What is the Red Zone?
