Helping A Rape Victim (experience)

[Krie]

I think that rape is a very bad thing but what do you do if you know someone that has happened to not even a year ago. How do you help that person. Keeping it inside rips and tears away at their insides and they are afraid to tell someone. They don't want to feel like everyone is looking down on them.
Even if it was not their fault they pin themselves down causing a state of depression. What do you do when you fall into this depression? this person has her mind blotted with pain and everytime something happens such as going back into the state that happened in her mind will instantly flash back and the person will fall and cry.
My question is how can you help this person indirectly? B/c they are scared to tell the story of their misfortune. How do you help them? What can you say to give them advice? Please let me know, b/c i have no clue how to realize that it was not that person's fault. How do you let them express themselves to help them realize things so that they can do something about it? Any advice? please tell...

[Jaymes]

Until the person is ready to talk and seek help, the only thing anyone really can do offer an ear, be a friend, remind them that it is not their fault, and encourage them to report the rapist.

[evearael]

...

Where to start? I was silent for over four years. It took me a decade to gather the strength to go to the police. She must be very strong to confide in you so soon after the fact, and she has placed an amazing amount of trust in you. To help her indirectly... help her to rebuild her confidence and self-worth. Listen to her when she wants to talk, reaffirming that it isn't her fault, or give her a shoulder to cry on when words fail her. Don't take it personally if she lashes out. Compliment her on little things. Help her reconnect with life... walks in the park or visiting the mall... build good memories for her to draw strength from when confronting the bad. Encourage her to seek help from the police, rape crisis centers, counselors, et cetera, but respect her decision if she chooses not to... rape victims often have serious trust issues from their experiences as well as an overwhelming sense of shame. You are very good to give her support through the healing process, make sure you take care of yourself as well. I highly recommend The Courage to Heal for both you and her. I will write more as I think on it more.