I Don't Know What to Do

If you have experienced sexual misconduct or think you have, help is available. There are resources available both on and off campus to help you.

What is Sexual Misconduct?

Sexual misconduct can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender, age or sexual orientation. Sexual misconduct includes, but is not limited to, the following prohibited behaviors:

  • Sexual Harassment
  • Sexual Assault
  • Sexual Exploitation
  • Stalking
  • Dating Violence
  • Domestic Violence
  • Retaliation

For detailed descriptions please see our Policy & Definitions page.

Steps to Consider

  1. First, make sure you are safe. If you are in doubt, call your local police department. If you are on campus, call the WCU Police at 610-436-3311.
  2. Preserve evidence and get medical care. Although you may not want to involve the police or university now, you may change your mind in the future. Try not to bathe, eat, or clean up. Store your clothes in a paper bag or wear them to the hospital.

    Seeking medical attention does not mean that you will follow through with reporting but rather allows you to get the attention you may need. For students, the Student Health Services (610-436-2509) can provide free and confidential treatment for injuries, STD/STI testing, pregnancy testing, and emergency contraception. Student Health Services does not provide post-assault forensic evidence collection (commonly referred to as a 'rape kit'). If you wish to seek post-assault forensic evidence collection the nurse practitioners at Student Health Services can help you locate a medical provider who offers this service. Chester County and Paoli Hospitals have SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners) nurses within their staff. If you don’t have a car, WCU Police will take you. For more information, see Appendix A in the Sexual Misconduct Policy Handbook.
  3. Seek Support - While you may feel uncomfortable sharing your story with someone else, seeking support is highly recommended. There are resources provided on campus for you to help in this difficult time. Please check out our Resource Page for information.

While you may not be ready to share your experience and use the above resources, please remember that seeking support is an important part of the healing process. You may consider reaching out to a trusted friend or family member if professional support is not attained. During this difficult time you may be experiencing a variety of emotions. Many experience fear, anxiety, depression, and self-blame. Difficultly sleeping and concentrating, social withdrawal, nightmares, and flashbacks are all common responses. If you are experiencing any of these reactions, you are not alone. If you need help after hours, the WCU Counseling Center has offered a list of Emergency Resources for mental health.

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