It can be an emotional and challenging experience to support a survivor of sexual assault. You are likely trying to process your own feelings about what happened to your loved ones while wanting to be the best support you can be as they decide their next steps. Disclosing a sexual assault to a friend, family member, and/or loved one is extremely scary for the survivor as they may not be sure how you may react. Your reaction to a disclosure and the support you provide to the person who confides in you is critical to their healing. It is important that you listen without judging during these conversations. These pages can offer you some resources so you can be educated about resources and options available to survivors of sexual assault in Colorado. We also include some helpful tips on what to say and where to refer your friend, family member, and/or loved one when they are in need additional resources.
Please remember that a survivor of sexual assault may be experiencing a lot of confusing and scary feelings. Sometimes they may even feel like it is their fault. It is important that you make them feel supported.
