When someone you care about has been sexually assaulted it can be difficult to know what to do or say. You may experience a variety of feelings – fear, anger, sadness, and disbelief. The most important thing that you can do from the beginning is to believe them. Your reaction to their disclosure and the support you provide is important to their healing process. Try your best to remain calm, listen without judgment, and support the survivor's decisions.
Remember, nothing a person does, nor the decisions they make, causes them to be sexually assaulted. Your loved one needs your love and support no matter the circumstances of the assault.