The document provides information and support for victims of sexual abuse. It discusses how victims often don't tell anyone about the abuse for around 5 years. It emphasizes that the victim is not at fault and should not feel blamed. Close to 93% of victims know their abuser in some way like a family member or friend. When a victim does decide to tell someone about the abuse, they should feel comfortable sharing as much or as little as they want. For supporters of victims, the most important things are to listen without judgment, reassure the victim of your support, and avoid saying anything that could make them feel blamed or ashamed.
The document provides information and support for victims of sexual abuse. It discusses how victims often don't tell anyone about the abuse for around 5 years. It emphasizes that the victim is not at fault and should not feel blamed. Close to 93% of victims know their abuser in some way like a family member or friend. When a victim does decide to tell someone about the abuse, they should feel comfortable sharing as much or as little as they want. For supporters of victims, the most important things are to listen without judgment, reassure the victim of your support, and avoid saying anything that could make them feel blamed or ashamed.
The document provides information and support for victims of sexual abuse. It discusses how victims often don't tell anyone about the abuse for around 5 years. It emphasizes that the victim is not at fault and should not feel blamed. Close to 93% of victims know their abuser in some way like a family member or friend. When a victim does decide to tell someone about the abuse, they should feel comfortable sharing as much or as little as they want. For supporters of victims, the most important things are to listen without judgment, reassure the victim of your support, and avoid saying anything that could make them feel blamed or ashamed.
Have you been a victim of sexual abuse ? ● If you are or were a victim of sexual abuse it is important to know that you are not alone. ● Being a victim of sexual abuse is something that no one would want to experience. ● If you are or were a victim I know that you are hurting inside and I know that you may be scared ● Just know that it is going to be okay and someone is here to for you to talk to. Did you know ? ● Did you know that it is more common for victims of sexual abuse to not come out to anyone about being abuse for approximately 5 years. ● Did you know that there are a lot of support groups, hotlines and people around you to help you get through your situation ● Victim Blaming is NOT okay because this is NOT your fault. You were the victim . The facts ! ● Approximately 93% of victims of sexual abuse either know their offender or has some kind of relationship with the offender (ex. Family member, friend) ● Yes, you will experience traumatic situations in your life because you went through such a traumatizing thing. ● It is okay to not be okay. People who were not victims of sexual abuse has no idea how you feel or what you are going through. What to do ? ● When you finally decide to come out and tell someone about your abuse here is what you do: ○ Sit them down and have a face to face talk ○ Take a breath because this will not be easy ○ It is okay to show emotion, so you can cry if you need too ○ Tell them whatever it is you want them to know. ○ Do not feel like you are being forced ○ Be comfortable Are you the Supporter ? FOr the parents, loved ones or friends ● If you are a parent, loved one, or friend of the victim it is important that they know you support them and have the best interest at heart. You should never use words or slurs that can remind them of their traumatic experience. You need to be understanding and tell them that it is okay to feel that way. You can’t put yourself in their shoes because they do not need that, they need to know that you are there for them no matter what. Do’s and Don’t Do’s Don’ts
● Do be supportive ● Don’t rush the victim to talk
● Do be patient ● Don’t talk right away ● Do be present ○ Let everything they just told you process first ○ Listening ● Don’t force anything more than what they are ○ Engaging telling you ● Do be encouraging ● Don’t be a jerk ● Do use reassuring words ● Don’t give them advice on how they should ○ I am here for you have avoided the situation ○ I love you ● Don’t tell them they should have spoken up ○ You are not in this alone sooner ● Do avoid judgement ● Do check in periodically We support you