ASUW CORE: Supporting a Survivor

Supporting a Survivor

Since 1 in 4 women and 1 in 5 men will be victims of sexual assault during their lifetime, it is important to be aware of the feelings and needs of survivors of sexual assault.

Some feelings a survivor might experience include: violation, guilt, shame, confusion, helplessness, shock, suspicion, alone, or at fault.

Possible verbal and active responses are: "I believe you," "I'm glad you're alive," "It's not your fault," "I'm sorry it happened," and "You survived, you did the right thing."

Remember to: listen, provide options and choices, be nonjudgmental, give the survivor control, ask only necessary questions, and validate his/her feelings.

Resources for Survivors of Sexual Assault

Committee Organizing Rape Education (CORE): 206-543-4238

Sexual Assault & Relationship Violence Information Service (SARIS): 206-685-HELP (206-685-4357)

King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC): 24-hour Crisis & Information Line; 1-800-825-7273

Harborview Center for Sexual Assault and Traumatic Stress: 206-521-1800; TDD/TTY 206-521-1808

UW Student Counseling Center: 206-543-1240