Having non-judgmental support is vital for the healing process of a survivor of trauma, regardless of the type of trauma (domestic violence, sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and/ or human trafficking). Your role is an important one!
It can be difficult to hear that someone you care about has survived an act of violence. There is not a perfect response, but here are some helpful tips:
Listen.
Be patient.
Don’t judge or blame them.
Use survivor affirming language, such as: “I believe you,” and “this doesn’t change how I feel about you” and/or or “this isn’t your fault.” (https://www.rainn.org/articles/how-respond-survivor).
If the survivor is ready to report, ask how you can support them. Find information here about steps on reporting (add hyperlink to What To Expect When An Assault is Reported).
Be supportive especially when the survivor chooses not to report.
Encourage survivors to seek out support such counseling; remember only they can seek services for themselves in their own time.
Help them find resources; our helpline can be a good place to start (443-279-0379).
Check in with them periodically; don’t avoid talking about the abuse.
Understand that most victims of domestic violence do not leave quickly, and many don’t leave at all. Do not judge or cut your loved one off; this is what her/his abusive partner often wants (isolation). Offer to be there when needed.
Adults in your life may suffer from abuse from a current partner or may have suffered abuse as a child . Here is a link to signs that an adult may have been or is currently experiencing violence.
Signs of Abuse in Children
Children are vulnerable to different types of abuse. Whether it is abuse that is occurring at home or elsewhere, it is important to recognize signs of abuse in children to shield them from further harm.
What to Do if Someone Discloses to You
Disclosure of abuse is a stressful situation. These tools will help you know the next steps.
How to Support a Partner
If your partner discloses he/she is a victim of abuse, these tips will assist you in supporting your loved one.
How to Support Your Child
One of the most difficult things is for a parent to learn their child has been the victim of abuse. We have compiled some thoughts on how to support your child through their trauma and how to address your own.
How to Support a Child Witness of Domestic Violence
Whether you and your child are currently living in the home, or recently left an abusive situation there are steps you can take to support your child emotionally and to prioritize their safety.
Tips
- Brief descriptions of each of the sub pages
Additional Support
Here are some suggestions for taking care of yourself while supporting someone who disclosed abuse to you.
For more suggestions for taking care of yourself while supporting someone who disclosed abuse to you visit our Virtual Learning Center.
We provide wrap-around and therapeutic services for survivors of intimate-partner violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. These services include case management, group and individual therapy, legal advocacy, emergency shelter, referrals, and employment readiness.
Legal Services
Provides free legal consultation and representation on family law, civil cases, victim rights, and protective order hearings.
Provides immediate and ongoing support that includes victim's rights and case management assistance to survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking.
Immediate response due to safety concerns giving survivors access to our 24/7 crisis helpline and text line, assistance to locate safe house options, and connection to crisis therapy and advocacy and resource services.
