Working together to eliminate sexual violence in Aotearoa
Telling Someone
Not everyone who is sexually assaulted tells someone – be it a friend, family member, or the police. Often, if they do disclose their experience, it may be days, weeks, months, or even years later.
There are various reasons why you may not want to disclose you have been sexually assaulted. Click on each of the boxes below to learn more about why someone may not disclose they have been sexually assaulted.
If someone discloses to you that they were sexually assaulted, please remember all the above reasons they may have faced before finding the courage to talk to you. Respond with compassion, care, and belief. Don’t give unsolicited advice; help them make their own decisions on what, if anything, they want to do next.
If you have been sexually assaulted and are considering telling someone, please know it is never too late and you are not alone.