If you find out your daughter has been date-raped, you may feel pain, sorrow or self-blame. Most of all, you will feel empathy for your daughter and a desire for her to get help. The decision is hers to make, and you don't want her to feel forced to do anything she doesn't want to do. But there are some things you can do that may increase the chances she will seek help on her own.
Step 1
Tell your daughter that she is not alone. One out of every six American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime, according to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network.
Step 2
Tell your daughter that many people who are raped begin to feel better after they talk to someone about it.
Step 3
Empower your daughter by telling her that it is her decision whether or not she speaks to someone. Rape is an experience that takes away an individual's power. It is important for your daughter to not feel like her power is being taken away from her again by being forced to speak to a counselor.
Step 4
Tell her that if she would feel more comfortable, she can talk on the phone or online by calling the National Sexual Assault Hotline at (800) 656-HOPE or visiting their website.
Step 5
Offer to make the appointment and accompany your daughter to the counselor's or health care professional's office.
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