Add How to Help a Victim
If someone you care about was sexually assaulted:
- Believe her or his story
- Listen without interrupting
- Do not judge or blame
- Ask what you can do to help
- Accept all responses and feelings (or lack of) as normal
- Reassure the victim that the assault was not his/her fault
- Contact GWSAS, Inc. for information and resources
- Encourage her/him to report the assault and seek professional health care
- Urge her/him to seek help from health professionals for treatment.
- Allow the victim to choose and control what happens
- Do not force or pressure the victim make choices or decision
- Support his or her decisions
- Be patient
- Respect her/his rights to privacy and confidentiality
- Seek help and support for yourself