Young people will often seek support and guidance from their friends before turning to family, service providers or community and religious leaders.  So what should you do, if a friend confides in you that they are in an abusive relationship or have survived abuse?

• Offer your friend time and space to talk about his / her experience and feelings.  It’s good to find a place that is private and where you will not be interrupted. 
• Let your friend know that you are concerned for him / her, and that you are glad that he / she trusts you enough to discuss together.
• Don’t place blame, guilt or shame on your friend.  Make sure she understands that he / she is not to blame for the abuse. 
• Speak about keeping safe, if she / he feels that she / he is in danger: Where can they go? Who can they call?
• If your friend decides to stay in the abusive relationship, continue to provide support.  It may be difficult to understand, but wat your friend will need is someone to continue to be his / her friend and not judge his / her actions. 
• Encourage your friend to maintain positive relationships with friends and family
• Encourage your friend to talk to professionals who can help.  This will vary depending on where you are, but can include women and girls centres, medical providers, religious elders . . .

If your friend has been raped, strongly encourage him / her to go to a medical provider as soon as possible (within 72 hours).  Even if it is longer than 72 hours, it is important that your friend seeks medical attention as soon as possible. Please see service providers.