How to help someone who is being stalked
Updated September 2026 · 4 min read
Believe them, let them make the decisions, and be careful with anything that could reveal where they are. Help them keep a record and connect with an advocate, who can plan for their safety with them.
Believe them
Stalking is often dismissed as flattery or overreaction. Take what they tell you seriously, and avoid questions that sound like blame, such as why they have not simply blocked the person.
Protect their privacy
- Do not share their location, new address, plans or photos, including in social media posts or tags.
- Do not pass messages between them and the person stalking them.
- Ask before telling anyone else what is happening.
Practical ways to help
- Offer to help keep the incident log up to date, or to be a witness when something happens.
- Help them find a local advocate through VictimConnect (1-855-484-2846).
- Offer a safe place, a ride, or company at times they feel exposed.
- Look after yourself too; if the person starts contacting you, write it down and tell them.
Take your home address off people-search sites
People-search sites publish home addresses, phone numbers and relatives for anyone to look up. Removing yours makes you harder to find. Safe Shepherd removes you and keeps watching for you to reappear.
Create a Free AccountQuestions
Should I contact the person who is stalking them?
No. It can make things more dangerous. Leave that to your friend, an advocate or the police.
What if they do not want to report it?
That is their decision. You can still help them stay safe, keep a record and talk to an advocate.
Related
Sources: SPARC: resources for stalking victims · SPARC: external resources. Safe Shepherd is not affiliated with any government program or the organizations linked here.