In a fit of confusion and trust, a friend close to you has spoken of their abusive relationship, revealing that the partner they tried to break up with beat and raped them. Recently they’ve been silent. Their scars are more visible and they don’t attend club activities anymore. Whenever you call their cell, the rapist answers. If they do come around, the abuser’s at their right hand as they force a smile. What do you do to both help them and avoid worsening the situation? The topic is fragile, but knowing a few available options could save a life.
What Not To Do
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Do Not personally approach the assaulter of the relationship! Whether they be male or female, their temper could be dangerous for both yourself, and the abused partner.
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Do Not consult in unprofessional ears, such as; friends, coworkers, or strangers about the situation. Concerned as you may be, too many ears could lead to falsified information and increase the danger of the abused.
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Do Not completely ignore the situation. Although the need for help will not always be voiced by the hurt party, turning a blind eye to known danger could produce negative results.
What You Can Do
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You Can keep as much contact with the abused party as possible. Check on them to verify whether or not they need your assistance. If they say no, stay in contact, make daily conversation. When a person is in a dark place, nothing helps more than a trusted friend.
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You Can speak with a counselor about the situation. At ODU, counseling sessions are free, especially in the event an emergency. If need be, speak hypothetically. Every situation is different and they will help you figure out what the best step to take may be.
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You Can contact the police if neither you, family, or other trusted persons have been in direct contact with the troubled party for longer than eight hours or less if you are certain of their danger. A missing person’s report will be filed and a search will be begin immediately.
As displayed in the situation above, the parties that could be involved in a sexual assault confrontation are, but not limited to, the assaulter, assaulted, witness, and authorities. Sexual assault happens in different scenarios, the danger level variant for all, but there are still measures that can be taken that differ from the above. Sometimes an assault can be witnessed and other times a person can be recognized as a known rapist. In those cases, contacting the authorities immediately is recommended. There can be people who are too afraid to report for themselves from fear of consequences. Volunteering to do so for them could be an option. Groups on campuses and within communities can be joined to help recognize, approach, or cope with a Sexual Assault situation. The opportunity is present and anyone can be a part of the solution.