Power of One
How To Help A Friend
How To Support A Friend Who Has Been Victimized:
Believe them.
Don’t ask them to describe what happened or ask judgmental questions. You can say, “I believe you.”
Remind them that it is not their fault.
The responsibility for an assault always completely lies on the perpetrator. You can say, “I’m sorry that someone hurt you”
Listen.
Let your friend know that you care and that you are available to them when they want to talk. You can say, “Thank you for trusting me with your story.”
Suggest resources.
Examples include talking to your RA, a counselor, or the campus sexual assault advocate.
Let them make their own decision.
If your friend is dealing with a controlling and manipulative partner, the last thing they need is for you to mimic those behaviors by forcefully telling them what to do. You can say, “I support you, whatever you choose to do next.”