Helping Victims of Sexual Assault
Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Abuse
Question:
I do not know how to help a friend who has been sexually assaulted.
Answer:
Listening to your friend without judging his or her choices is the best thing you can do. Reinforce the message that your friend is not to blame for what happened. Be sensitive to new fears and behaviors associated with the assault (such as avoiding crowds or feeling unsafe in previously comfortable locations). Most importantly, give your friend time to heal and let him or her know you are there to listen whenever needed.
Source: Conversations with Convicted Rapist
Birdy, please remember to add that the healing time that we, rape victims, need can be several days, weeks, or even years. Thank you for understanding the problems. :)
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