Tips to Support a Survivor
Last updated August 12, 2019
Whether you are a friend, partner, or family member, you can be a pivotal force in your loved one’s recovery from sexual assault. It is also important to recognize that the assault can be traumatizing for you as a loved one, so please make sure you practice self-care.
Tips
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Believe every person
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Be supportive and treat them with respect
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Listen, listen, listen
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Do not accuse or judge
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Focus on the survivor’s emotions, not on actual facts about the assault
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Offer them local resources and encourage them to seek professional counseling
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Do not pretend the assault never happened
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Reassure: THIS WAS NOT YOUR FAULT
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Do not press for details
It is normal to feel enraged that someone hurt your loved one, but the focus should remain on the survivor’s emotions.