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H: HAVE resources to share
H: HAVE resources to share
No one has all the answers, but it's important to know where to find help when someone you know needs support. Try researching medical professionals or mental health support to start. We have provided a short list of resources here to get you started. Just remember, everyone's journey is different, and its important to meet people where they are.
Call 800.656.HOPE (4673)
Chat at hotlines.RAINN.org
Chat in WhatsApp
Text HOPE to 64673
E: EDUCATE yourself
E: EDUCATE yourself
Being educated doesn't necessarily mean knowing every fact in the book; in fact, you can start right here by learning some basic numbers and facts:
link to stats page
We don't have to know someone experienced trauma to talk in a trauma-informed way; in fact, you can use these tips anywhere. Below are a few ways to support and help someone work through trauma without being disrespectful or hurtful:
Don't press anyone - it's important to meet people where they are and not to give them advice unless they ask for it
Validate their experiences and feelings - saying things like "I hear you" or "you didn't deserve this" is a great way of giving trauma-informed validation
Avoid blame - don't ask anyone what they were wearing, or what they were doing to "warrant this." This type of behavior could make victims feel worse and shift the blame onto themselves
Be patient - Healing isn't always linear, giving people time and space instead of constantly pushing them is a great way of supporting people even when you aren't physically there.
A: ADVOCATE for survivors
A: ADVOCATE for survivors
Advocacy can come in many forms, whether it's a huge public protest or just being there to support someone going through a rough time. Every time you speak up, donate, or support an organization like us, you are helping make the world a better and safer place. Here is a short list of easy ways you can help create a safer environment for everyone.
Volunteer at your local rape crisis center
Participate in awareness events like SAAPM: Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month
Challenge harmful language or myths when you hear them
Support policies and laws that protect survivors and prevent sexual violence
Express willingness to accompany survivors to appointments or interviews if they ask
L: LISTEN to their story
L: LISTEN to their story
Listening can be one of the most powerful tools when it comes to supporting people experiencing trauma. It's important to listen to all they have to say and make sure to respond in a respectful way that validates their feelings without making them feel worse. Here are some examples of what TO say and what NOT TO say.
Great examples of how to respond:
“Thank you for telling me.”
“I’m so sorry that happened to you.”
“I’m here for you.”
“I believe you.”
Avoid saying these things, as they may cause further harm:
Don’t ask “Are you sure that’s what happened?”
Don’t downplay the experience: “It could have been worse.”
Don’t ask for unnecessary details
Don’t suggest they “need to let it go” or “should be over it by now.”
Don’t pressure them to report to law enforcement or confront the perpetrator
At the end of the day, what matters most is sitting with them and showing them how much you care.
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