What To Do if a Friend is the survivor of a Rape

 

• Listen-do not judge.
• It is not your place to play prosecutor and prove her story. Accept her version of the facts and be supportive.
• Offer shelter.
• If it is at all possible, stay at her place or let her spend at least one night at your place. This is not the time for her to be alone.
• Give comfort.
• She has been badly treated. She needs to be nurtured.
• Let her know that she is not to blame.
• This is crucial. Many rape survivors blame themselves. She needs to be reassured that the rapist is to blame, she is not.
• Encourage Action-
  For example, she can call a hotline, go to the hospital, and/or call the police.
• Do not be overly protective.
• She needs to make her own decisions and be in control of her life and this is not possible if you do everything for her.

 

*Information provided by the Greater New Haven Sexual Assault Crisis Services