Validate
and believe them.
If they feel ashamed or guilty, reassure them that the assault
was not their fault and that their feelings are normal.
Remember this number: 72 hours.
Physical evidence must be collected within 72 hours of the assault.
A victim can decide later whether or not they want to press charges.
To prevent pregnancy, emergency contraceptive pills must also
be taken within 72 hours of the assault.
Allow
them to express a full range of feelings.
The feelings of a survivor of sexual assault can be very intense
and can range from hysteria to numbness. Expressing these powerful
feelings in a safe environment is an important part of the healing
process. If you feel comfortable supporting them in expressing
their feelings, this can be very helpful.
Offer
options, not advice.
Survivors have to struggle with complex decisions and feelings
of powerlessness. You can offer support by helping your friend
identify all of the options available and assisting them in their
decision-making. Trying to make decisions for them will only increase
that sense of powerlessness.
Encourage
them to get help.
Don't feel like you have to have all of the answers. There are
many resources at Brown and off campus to help you and your friend.
Get
information about resources.
If your friend is reluctant to seek help, you can find out details
about services to help your friend choose the best options.
Help
create a safe place for the survivor.
Help your friend think about what changes, if any, they would
like to feel safer, whether related to their physical surroundings
or how they interact with people.
Believe
in the possibility of healing.
Let your friend know that you believe that they have the strength
and capacity to heal.
