What to say to a friend who has been raped?

[madeofamethyst]

I have an internet friend, and today she told me that she is pretty sure she was raped last night. She hasn't told me any details really and I don't want to make her uncomfortable and force things out of her. I'm trying to encourage her to tell someone, and I mentioned that she should see if she should get to a hospital but how should I talk to her about all off this? I have no experience with this kind of thing and I'm terrified of saying or doing the wrong thing
Thank you so much

[Apple Orchard Ghost]

Above all, support her. Validate her feelings and her experience. Don't push her; this is probably incredibly difficult for her to talk or think about, but when she brings it up, do the best you can to let her know you're on her side. Definitely encourage her to seek help; it's extremely hard to get through major trauma like rape by yourself.

[hocus pocus]

I agree with Katie. Just let her know that you're there for her if she ever wants to talk about anything; keep an open invitation for her to freely express what she has gone through and her feelings related to the trauma. I think you should keep encouraging her to seek help, however, remember that it might take some time before she feels ready to get help for this.

She's really lucky to have you as a friend.