How to help someone who's been Sexually Assautled

How to help someone who's been Sexually Assaulted

Listen to her* story when she’s ready to tell it. Avoid “why” questions – she’s likely to be asking herself enough of them already. Show her you want to listen.
Believe her story – she really needs your support now. People rarely lie about sexual assault.
Emphasize this was not her fault. No one deserves to be sexually assaulted, no matter what they did/wore/said.
Encourage her to get medical treatment.
Let her decide who to tell; this is not your story to share.
Encourage her to talk to a counselor, and let her decide when to seek help.
Let her decide whether to report it to the authorities. Her deciding helps her to take control back.
Let her express her feelings – and realize that they’re not aimed at you.
Remember that everyone responds differently, some experience the effects of sexual assault more immediately afterwards, others experience longer-term effects. Accept her where she is.
Take care of yourself while helping her. It can be very difficult to support someone through such a traumatic event, and you may need to seek help for yourself.
Use these resources for information or support for yourself:
- University Counseling Center: 275-3113 Oncall 24/7
- Rape Crisis Services of Planned Parenthood: 546-2777 Oncall 24/7
- If someone you know has been sexually assaulted