For family and friends
You don’t have to have the right words. Sometimes there are no words. Be there, support them, and help guide them to resources.
Photo to come Two people talking quietly at a kitchen table, from the October 31 shoot
What to say
I’m glad you told me. I’m here. I believe you.
You do not need the perfect words, and you do not have to have answers.
What to avoid
- Asking “why” questions.
- Reacting with anger that scares them.
- Telling other people without asking.
- Promising things you cannot control.
If any of that has already happened, it is okay. You can always come back to steady.
Care for you, too
The people who love a survivor carry their own version of this: anger, fear, sleeplessness, guilt. That deserves support of its own.
Rendering of the waiting room at the center