Supporting someone who has been sexually harassed:
A person who has been sexually harassed may struggle with some of the following feelings:
- Fear of being disbelieved
- Confusion over details of the event
- Worry that they may be blamed for the assault occurring
- Fear of exposing the assailant, if it happens to be someone they know personally
- Minimize the severity of what occurred
- Seeking medical care
- Worry that their friends or family may find out
- Fear of being seen differently, or treated differently after an assault
A person who has been sexually harassed may benefit from:
- Having a friend or advocate accompany them to a medical or counseling appointment
- Knowing that they are believed and supported
- Listening, rather than offering suggestions
- Encouraging to report, and being given the opportunity to own their own process and decision making regarding the incident
A person who has been sexually harassed should avoid:
- Initiating future contact with the assailant
- Showering, changing clothes, or eating if the student intends to pursue a medical examination shortly after an assault
- Taking any medication, or self-treating wounds until seen by a medical professional
If you are a friend of a person who has been sexually harassed please be aware of the following signs:
- Inward posturing
- Extreme fluctuation in a person’s physical appearance or eating habits
- Changes in a person’s feelings or attitude
- Self- criticism
- Guilt
- Confusion regarding a sexual encounter