Advice for Families & Friends

What should loved ones do—and what should they avoid?

• BELIEVE THEM. Listen and take their concerns seriously. Do not dismiss, question, or minimize what they are experiencing.
• REMIND THEM THAT IT IS NOT THEIR FAULT. The stalker is responsible for the behavior. No one deserves to be stalked, threatened, or made to feel unsafe.
• BE SUPPORTIVE. Offer emotional support without judgment or pressure. Instead of telling them what to do, ask, “How can I help you feel safer?” Respect their choices and recognize that they know their situation best.
• HELP THEM CONNECT WITH RESOURCES. Offer to help them find victim services or a stalking advocate. Support them in documenting incidents, preserving evidence, and exploring options for reporting to law enforcement.
• RESPECT THEIR PRIVACY. Do not share their location, routines, photographs, or personal information without permission. Ask how you can communicate with them safely.
• SUPPORT SAFETY PLANNING. Help them work with a trained advocate to develop a plan tailored to their circumstances. Depending on their needs, this may include reviewing home security, securing online accounts, establishing a code word, or arranging trusted check-ins. Discuss changes together rather than assuming any single measure will keep them safe.
• DO NOT CONFRONT THE STALKER. Avoid contacting, threatening, or trying to reason with the person on their behalf. Well-intended intervention could increase the danger.
• Your role is to listen, believe, and support—not to take control. Consistent, compassionate support can help someone feel less isolated as they navigate what to do next.

SPARC – STALKING PREVENTION, AWARENESS AND RESOURCE CENTER. https://www.stalkingawareness.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/SupportingLovedOnesExperiencingStalking.pdf