How can you help someone who has been sexually assaulted?

The most important point to remember is that the rape or assault is not your friend's fault. Sometimes the phrases "I believe you" and "It wasn't your fault" are the most powerful phrases you can say to help your friend. Other ways you can help your friend include:

• Listen and be available.
  
  
• Don't judge or blame your friend for the rape or assault.
  
  
• Offer shelter and safety.
  
  
• Encourage action. For example, encourage your friend to seek medical attention, but do not force them to do so.
  
  
• Let your friend decide what actions to take. Making choices helps your friend to regain control lost during the assault. Support your friend, even if you do not agree with her decision.
  
  
• Do not attempt to seek revenge against the rapist.
  
  
• Be gentle, sensitive, and respectful of the survivor's wishes for closeness or affection. Ask your friend if it is okay to touch or hug her/him.
  
  
• Consult with those who can help you. For example, contact the SACC Team, the University Counseling Center, GW Coordinator of Victim Services, or the DC Rape Crisis Center for advice, guidance, and resources.
  
  
• Recognize that recovery can take a long time and continue to support your friend.
  
  
• Help yourself. It might be difficult to deal with a friend's disclosure alone, talking with someone about your thoughts and feelings can be helpful. The University Counseling Center is available for support.
  
  
  Helpful Phrases:
  It's not your fault.
  I believe you.
  How can I help you?
  I'm here if you want to talk.
  What do you want to do?
  
  Getting A Conversation Started:
  If you suspect that your friend might have been sexually assaulted and would like to help them, but do not know how to bring up the topic, here are some conversation openers that might help you.
  
  "I've noticed that you seem upset/sad/angry recently, is there anything you want to talk about?"
  
  "I'm concerned about you...is there anything I can do to help?"
  
  "I've noticed that you are not sleeping well (insert any other noticable changes in behavior), are you upeset about something?"
  
  "I'm concerned you might have been sexually assaulted, I'm here if you want to talk."
  
  It is important to remember that your friend may not want to talk about what happened, and that is okay. Let your friend know you are there for them and that there are resources available for them if they want to talk.