Friends and Family Archives - You Have the Right CO

What should I say to a friend, family member and/or loved one if they open up to me they’ve been sexually assaulted?

Sexual violence at its root is about one person feeling entitled to another person’s body and using their power to control that person. Therefore, as a friend, family member, and/or loved one of someone who has experienced sexual assault, one of the key things you can do is work to give them their power and ... Read more

Who can I refer my friend, family member and/or loved one to speak to for help?

As a friend, family member, and/or loved one of a survivor, it can be tempting to try and be their advocate, counselor, and guide them as they traverse this difficult time. These multiple roles can be really difficult to manage, and sometimes feel overwhelming. It is important to remember that many survivors struggle in reporting ... Read more

For Friends and Family

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 ... Read more

Who Pays for the Medical Forensic Exam?

One main barrier in deciding to seek medical care after a sexual assault can be paying for the medical care. Survivors may be concerned that seeking medical care will mean that their privacy will not be protected as they may have to give out their insurance information. However, there are several different entities that cover portions ... Read more

What Is a Medical Forensic Exam?

Moving Away From “Rape Kits” While “rape kit” is often heard in the media and on television crime shows, this term does not fully encompass the spectrum of care given in a medical forensic exam and may discourage individuals who do not identify with the term “rape” from seeking medical care. “Medical forensic exam” (MFE) is ... Read more

Colorado Reporting Options

What reporting options does a survivor have in Colorado? In Colorado, survivors of sexual assault between 18-69 years old, who do not have intellectual or developmental disabilities, have three options for reporting. Even though the term “reporting” is used, only one of the reporting options involves speaking with the police. With the other two options, ... Read more