How to help your survivor friend(s):

Find out how to help a friend who has been sexually assaulted.

Sexual assault is a traumatic event in a person’s life. It has rippling effects on friends and family. Your friend needs time to heal – it does not happen overnight.

What you should know:

• Your friend may be afraid of:
  • Being alone
  • Anything that reminds her or him of the rape and/or rapist
  • Reactions from people she or he cares about
• Your friend may experience feelings of:
  • Outrage, guilt, anger or embarrassment
  • Physical pain from being hurt and abused
  • Helplessness, isolation, alienation and withdrawal
• Your friend may have difficulty:
  • Relating to others
  • Expressing affection

How you can help your friend:

• Know the facts: According to recent FBI statistics, a rape happens every 6 minutes in the United States.
• Believe your friend. It takes courage and strength to tell someone about a traumatic event. Your friend trusts you.
• Listen to your friend. Let your friend talk at his or her own pace. Give control to your friend.
• Give information to your friend about getting help, but let your friend decide when to call.
• Take care of yourself. Resources are available to help you support your friend.