5 ways to support sexual assault victims

Be there

The best kind of support you can provide is by making yourself available at all times. If they want to chat, listen attentively to what they tell you

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Be encouraging and non-judgmental

Listen to them without forming any judgements. Make sure they know that you believe them. Provide them with a safe space to express themselves openly

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Promise to maintain confidentiality

Don’t reveal their sexual assault incident to anyone or reveal the specifics without their consent

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Let them make a choice

Give them the authority to choose what actions to take after the occurrence of the assault. Don’t try to offer excessive advice on what they should do

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Recommend professional counselling

Direct them to the proper resource for help. Keep in mind that while you can help your loved ones heal, you cannot heal them

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