Whether or not we realize it, everyone most likely knows someone who's been sexually assaulted. According to a study, 81 percent of women and 43 percent of men have reported experiencing sexual assault or sexual harassment. And people in minority groups 一 especially Native Americans and transgender individuals 一 are at an even higher risk. Statistics like these are terrifying, especially since they represent our loved ones.
While sexual assault is a widespread issue and the effects are long-lasting, friends can serve as amazing allies to survivors. As friends of people who have endured sexual violence, we play an important and powerful role; we can show our support and concern in a variety of effective, compassionate ways. However, since sexual assault is complex and a hard-to-process trauma, those aren't always as straightforward as we may think at first, and reacting in the right ways is critical.
Keep in mind that friends may not realize their experience was sexual assault right away, but be prepared for when they do. For advice on how to respond and be there for your friends in the best ways possible, POPSUGAR spoke with three psychologists. Keep reading for their biggest tips, and remember people of all genders can experience sexual assault, which is why you'll see "they/them/their" pronouns.
If you or a loved one need mental health help or treatment, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has several resources, including a helpline at 1-800-950-6264. You can also text "NAMI" to 741741 or email info@nami.org. For sexual-assault resources, you or your friend can contact the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) by using the chatline at online.rainn.org or calling the hotline at 800-656-4673.