If someone tells you they've been raped or sexually assaulted, remain calm. A violent display of shock or outrage may frighten the victim.
Believe what the victim tells you, and let the victim decide what to do.
If the victim is male, help him understand that what happened to him does not change his sexual orientation or make him less of a man if he expresses this concern.
Understand that there is no "right" way to respond to a sexual assault. Let the victim cry, scream, remain silent. Assure the victim of your support, and maintain the victim's confidentiality.
Give the victim the phone number for the nearest sexual violence counseling center, but let the victim decide when or whether to call.
Don't insist that the victim talk about the assault – to you or anyone else.
Avoid touching the victim without asking permission.
Avoid saying that everything is (or is going to be) okay. The victim probably doesn't feel okay and may not feel okay for quite some time.
Only make promises that you can keep. You cannot assure that the victim will never be hurt again or that the offender will be punished. You can help the victim explore ways to feel safer.
Do not confront (or threaten to confront) the offender. This could be dangerous for both you and the victim and can add additional trauma, especially if the offender is a friend or family member. This action may also make the victim feel responsible for you.