2.1.6 Self-Harm and Suicidal Tendencies

Sexual assault can be extremely traumatic and overwhelming, and some survivors may become suicidal.

If a survivor directly or indirectly mentions that they are thinking of self-harm or suicide or if you believe this is a possibility based on your interactions with them, ask the survivor directly if they are thinking about self-harm.

At the same time, you will need to disclose to the survivor that you have a mandated duty to report self-harm or suicidal tendencies to the health center if they disclose this to you.

Do not be afraid to do this.

People do not get the idea to self-harm or choose to self-harm simply because it’s mentioned to them.

Information about self-harm or other potentially harmful coping mechanisms can be used in court to discredit the survivor. It’s crucial that your notes or other forms of record-keeping prioritize the survivor’s need for privacy.

If you have reason to believe that the survivor may be a danger to themselves or others, you have an obligation to report this to the health center.