How to support someone who has been sexually assaulted TW

[abc1247]

My sister just told me that last night when she was out in town a man drove her to his house (against her will, he said he was dropping her home) and had forceful sex with her without her consent.

She’s incredibly traumatised and I feel absolutely heartbroken for her. I can’t imagine how she’s feeling and wanted to ask for some advice on how to support her?

She has reported to police and sorted emergency contraception.

That's horrible

Good to hear that she's reported it though (and I hope they believed her/took her seriously?) and sorted contraception.

I'd say that the best thing you can do for her is just to be there for her - let her talk/cry/shout (whatever she needs to do). Don't try and imagine how she must be feeling, just let her tell you and talk it out.

I don't have any experience of this, but I'd also imagine that she will need you to be with her (emotionally if not physically) for quite some time, especially if this ends up going to court.

Please ensure she gets therapy! I lived with ptsd for decades because I was raped.
Just be there for her. Even months or years down the line it may affect her. Take things at her pace if she wants to talk etc.

Trauma therapy is very good but may be too soon at present.

There's not much you can say at this time though. Just please ensure you don't say you can imagine what she's going through. This was incredibly tough to hear for me anyway. I kept thinking no you can't imagine it at all!!

Just be there for her.
Sending lots of love to both of you though.

Thank you both! Really appreciate it.
She’s awaiting therapy and the police are doing what they can.
Trying to just be there for her ❤️