Know and believe that the survivor did not deserve to be violated . No one asks to be raped. Be prepared for a wide range of reactions . Survivors may experience shock, guilt, shame, anger, embarrassment, fear, helplessness, stress, anxiety, depression, loss of trust, self-blame, and innumerable other reactions. Help the survivor regain a sense of control .
Rape takes away all sense of control over a person's own body.
It is important that the survivor is able to regain that control in deciding what to do next. Offer options and resources . Let the survivor know about the risk of physical harm, as well as the possibility of having contracted an STD or pregnancy. In addition, let the survivor know about the options for reporting rape and prosecuting. Remember it is the survivor's choice whether to prosecute.