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Originally Posted by Michelle  The best thing you can do for her is to be there, be a friend to her and encourage her to get the professional help she may need. What more can any friend actually do? In the end it is her choice whether or not to take this advice, and you do not help her by taking emotional responsibility for her or her situation. |
Yes, you're right. I'm not taking responsibility for her, I just thought that maybe someone knows of something particularly helpful that loved ones can do or say in such a situation.
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Originally Posted by rei Rose, i have experience with sexual assault survivors.
loved ones often want to do something to help, but there is probably not a magic thing you can say. be there for her, hold the space for her to express any emotions that come up. being there for her is the best thing you can do. |
OK. Thanks rei. Could you PM me those stages? I get that's nothing standard to be expected, but maybe it would help if I knew what they are and if I could recognize them?
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Originally Posted by spirit4711 Rose, I think you're doing fine so far. You are there for her, more you cannot do. |
OK. *nods*
We talked on the phone twice today and she writes many emails. I listen and write back. The connection is crappy and breaks all the time when she's online or when we are on the phone. But at least she knows I'm there and think of her.
Yes. She's in Africa! For work, and alone. I encouraged her to talk about it with the woman whose place she's staying at and she did, so I'm glad that at least she has in person support now.