Tips for Supporting Survivors

Helpful:

• Maintain a calm manner
• Listen without interrupting
• Let them know it is not their fault
• Educate on options & resources
• Allow them to make their own choices
• Allow expression of feelings
• Set judgments aside

Not Helpful:

• Do not blame or question their actions!
• Do not ask what or why questions
• Why did you drink so much?”
• Why did you go to their room?”
• Do not ask for details or too many probing questions
• Do not tell them what to do
• Do not minimize their feelings
• “It is ok now”
• “I know just how you feel”