How can i help a friend get over a problem bothering her?
Question Posted Tuesday September 16 2008, 1:57 am
my friend (girl) has a problem with guys.When she was younger (around 9years old or may be younger),a relative used to masturbate in front of her and to abuse her sexually.He used to open the toilet door when she is using the toilet, and things like that.She didn't tell me she was raped but she told me this terrifies her.Now she doesn't trust any guy and she's afraid when she is left alone with a guy.How can i help her to get over this problem and go on with her life?I really want to help her but don't know how!!!
[ Answer this question ] Want to answer more questions in the Relationships category? Maybe give some free advice about: Friendship? Jami answered Thursday September 18 2008, 6:47 pm: The best thing you can do is be there for her whenever she needs to talk or to cry. She may need to vent if she hasn't already.Some people don't begin to really deal with issues like that until much time has passed after the incident. Let her know that you care about her and you will never judge her for her feelings. You might also want to find out if she wants to start seeing a therapist to help her get through her issues. If it is possible for her, it could help her a lot. It will be difficult for you to understand exactly how she feels, but you can be the best support system you know how to be. [ Jami's advice column | Ask Jami A Question ]
ediemarie answered Wednesday September 17 2008, 2:16 pm: Hi,
I don't think there's anything you can do for your friend right now except to listen to her and let her know that you are there for her.
She is reaching out asking for help and she needs to talk to someone who is educated in this field. I would advise her to try talking to her parents. If that is not an option, I would definetly tell her to try and go on the web and seek out counselors who could steer her in the right direction.
This is a horrible thing to have happen to her. She cannot just forget it and move on with her life. It is not that simple.
Maybe you can be there with her when she is looking for a counselor.
Good luck to you and her, [ ediemarie's advice column | Ask ediemarie A Question ]
LiTTLEGiRLBLUE answered Wednesday September 17 2008, 2:13 am: Okay, well first of all I would advice you to ask your friend if she wants any help. Because believe it or not there are people that don't want any help. And if given help, they turn their back on you. Second, you should talk to her and ask her what causes her not to like being around guys and how she feels. I recommend that your friend goes to see a psychologist. They can help her cope with what she's been through and they could advice what to do and they can help her get over the fear of being around guys.
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