Survivor Support
If someone chooses to share their experience with you two important things you can say to that person is "I believe you" and "It is not your fault." Survivors may experience a loss of power and control as a result of their trauma. Nothing a person does or says justifies violence. It is essential as a support person to give survivors space and validate their ability to make their own decision regarding their healing.
Steps to support a survivor:
- Listen
- Validate
- Empower
- Refer: The survivor may want to seek supportive resources, you can help point them into that direction.
