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Dear Helpful,
A
Therapist Is What She Needs
Unfortunately, I don't
think there's too much you can do for your friend. It is my understanding
that the pain and scars caused by these kinds of events are very
difficult to heal. Generally, I think the best way to come to terms
with the feelings is to acknowledge them and deal with them (best
with a professional therapist).
You
Can't Force Her To Get Help
Since your friend wants
to just deny her feelings and move on, what CAN you do? You can't
force her to feel. You can't force her to get help, unless she's
being a real danger to herself or other people. You can't really
go to authorities for her, because she would have to present any
evidence or accusations herself.
Be
Supportive Of Her
The best a friend can
do in these circumstances is to be supportive. Keep checking in
with your friend about it. Give her room to have the feelings and
let her know that you will give her that space, even if she's not
getting support anywhere else.
She
May Be Distancing Herself From The Pain
Sometimes with very traumatic
experiences, a person has to distance herself from the pain. After
a time, she may find that her grades are slipping, or she doesn't
care about things anymore, or she gains or loses weight, or has
trouble sleeping.
 Help
Her By Suggesting Therapy
If she talks to you about
these things, suggest she see her doctor or a therapist. These are
the classic signs that the bad things that have happened to her
are catching up with her, whether she wants them to or not. As her
friend, you can help her keep a watch out for the signs that these
bad things are bringing her down.
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