Offering Support After an Incident

Witnessing harassment or bullying can be a traumatic experience for the target. In the aftermath, offering emotional support and resources can play a crucial role in their healing process.

Acknowledge Their Experience:

Following an incident, the most important thing you can do is acknowledge the target’s experience. Let them know you saw what happened and that you care. Here are some ways to phrase this:

• “I saw what happened, and I want you to know that it wasn’t right.”
• “That must have been really difficult for you. I’m here for you if you want to talk.”
• “Are you okay? Is there anything I can do to help?”

Active Listening and Validation:

Create a safe space for the target to express their feelings. Listen actively without judgment and validate their emotions. Let them know their feelings are understandable and that they are not alone. Avoid offering unsolicited advice or trying to minimize their experience.

Offer Support and Resources:

Depending on the severity of the incident, the target may need additional support. Here’s what you can do:

• Connect them with resources: Provide information about hotlines, counseling services, or support groups specifically designed to help victims of bullying or harassment.
• Offer practical assistance: If they need help reporting the incident or documenting the harassment, offer to guide them through the process. For instance, you could help them gather evidence or accompany them to a trusted adult or school administrator.
• Empower them to seek help: Let them know they have options and encourage them to seek professional help if needed.

Respect Their Boundaries:

While offering support is crucial, it’s equally important to respect the target’s boundaries. They may not be ready to talk immediately or might prefer to seek help from someone else. Don’t pressure them to share details they’re not comfortable with.

Long-Term Support:

Remember, the impact of harassment or bullying can linger. Continue to check in on the target in the days and weeks following the incident. Let them know you’re still there for them and that they can reach out if they need anything.

By offering support and resources, you can make a significant difference in the target’s healing process. Your actions can empower them to speak up for themselves, seek help, and build resilience in the face of adversity. The next lesson will explore the importance of reporting incidents and bystander accountability.