- Listen, and do not judge.
- Believe their story.
- Give comfort, if they want it.
- Be available and offer shelter if they don’t want to be alone.
- Let them know that they are not to blame.
- Help them figure out their options for what action to take, but accept their choice of solution.
- Feel free to come into the SARN office to talk with an advocate–don’t forget to take care of yourself!
Know That a Survivor Often Needs To
- Know their options.
- Feel safe.
- Be believed.
- Know it was not their fault.
- Take control of their life.
SARN is here to support you too! If you need to talk, please consider reaching out for help and support. We know that being a supportive friend or family member can be challenging and stressful and that it is important to remember to take care of yourself. Consider recommending other resources such as SARN to your friend, especially if you start to feel overwhelmed.
Here is another resource with more information about how to help someone who has experienced sexual or relationship violence: How To Help A Friend Who Has Been Sexually Assaulted (January 21, 2013 by Sarah Ogden Trotta)