Feeling overwhelmed is normal!
There is no perfect reaction to hearing that someone you care about has survived an act of sexual violence, but here are some helpful tips:
- Listen and be patient.
- Assure them that they are not to blame for the abuse.
- Tell them you believe them.
- Remind them that they are safe now. Ensure that they feel safe.
- Tell them they did the right thing by telling you.
- Listen to their feelings of confusion, shame, fear, betrayal, and guilt.
- Use age-appropriate words they can understand.
- Do not force them to talk about anything they aren’t ready to share.
- Seek counseling for them and for yourself, if you choose.
- TurnAround provides therapy services to child and teen survivors of violence and to their supporters.
Call TurnAround for support, 410-377-8111.
How to Support a Child Witness of Domestic Violence
Talk to them about safety and create a safety plan
Identify emergency contacts
Identify safe hiding spots
Self-Care for the Supporters
It is important to take care of yourself as practice your own self-care as you help your loved one. You may find yourself experiencing anxiety, fear, anger or helplessness after finding out about a loved one’s abuse.Therapy is not just for survivors; it is also for the people who support survivors. Counseling is a non-judgmental place where you can explore thoughts that you might not say out loud to a friend or family member.
