If you want to support a close friend or family member who has experienced sexual violence, you might be feeling confused and helpless. Working through your feelings helps you to help the close one whom you care about.
You can help your close one when you:
just listen and do not ask about the details – one does not always wish to talk about everything right away;
do not ask any “Why” questions – like “Why did you go there in the first place”, “Why did you drink alcohol”, and so forth;
respect their decision to turn to, or not to turn to the police;
be patient and do not tell them that they should forget about the incident;
believe them;
let your close one cry and express their feelings – even if crying upsets you.
Read more: How to Support a Friend or Relative Who Has Experienced Sexual Violence
