Common reactions

There is no singular response for a survivor of sexual assault; reactions can vary widely. A survivor may experience confusion, anger, guilt, and self-blame, along with feelings of mistrust, embarrassment, isolation, nightmares, anxiety, and a host of other emotional responses.

Support their choices

You can assist your friend or family member in accessing various community resources by contacting our helpline. It is essential to follow the survivor's lead and respect their choices, avoiding any pressure to make decisions they may find uncomfortable. Some survivors may not be ready to engage with law enforcement, hospitals, or rape crisis centers, and this is perfectly acceptable. It is crucial that the survivor retains control over their recovery process.