Friends and Faculty

Remind your loved one that what happened is not their fault. While you may not understand or know everything, it is important for a victim or survivor to feel like they have been heard. 

Affirm that their feelings are valid and that there is nothing wrong with how they may be feeling.

Listen to understand rather than listening to respond. Your loved one needs a listening ear more than a coach telling them what to do. Let them make their decisions; it is important for them to reclaim the power and control they may have lost.

Share with them that Survivor Advocacy Services can assist them with processing their trauma and coordinating any further services they may need. 

A full list of resources can be accessed on the resource page of our website.

While you may be tempted to keep everything secretive and your loved one may even ask you to promise not to say anything, it is best to use your own judgement.

If your friend is in immediate physical danger and/or at risk of hurting themselves or another person, please utilize resources that are listed on our website and/or call 9-1-1 if it is an emergency.