You can help someone who has been a victim of sexual misconduct or sexual assault by believing her/him, listening and offering comfort. Try to resist asking specific details.  One way to do this is by asking more generic questions such as "Is there anything else you want to tell me?" Always believe someone who discloses a sexual assault to you.  The worst feeling in the world is for someone to have the courage to come forward and feel like no one believes what (s)he is saying. Help him/her reach out to professionals who can provide more resources. Go with her/him to the hospital, helping him/her call resources, or by aiding her/him in filing a report with university officials or the police.

Sexual assault is about taking away control from another person.  This is why it is so important for survivors of sexual assault to get to choose how they want to report the incident.  Choosing to report the incident often a person's first chance to regain control over what has happened.  Encourage the individual to report the sexual assault incident, but accept the person's choice of what she/he decides to do. It is very important that the person who experienced these acts make decisions and have them respected. Avoid trying to take over and do things for the person; it is vital that the person who experienced the incident get to be in control of what happens next. 

 After an incident of sexual misconduct, the individual may be cautious of many things, including how close (s)he is to others and physical touch.  While your inclination may be to hug them, ask first before you touch or hug the person.   Everyone responds differently to physical touch after an incident like this

There is no one "normal" response to sexual misconduct.  Emotions can range from fear, guilt, and shame and anger, anxiety and panic.  It is highly recommended that survivors pursue some form of counseling.  Free counseling is available through Gonzaga's Counseling Center, and also by calling the Sexual Assault and Family Trauma Response Center, a non-Gonzaga affiliated community agency at 509-624-7273.  Some people experience physical symptoms such as sleeplessness, panic, vomiting, and flashbacks.  If physical symptoms continue or worsen, it is highly recommended that person(s) affected seek medical attention.  Gonzaga's Health Center is available to help students, as are local community providers.  Sometimes having a friend or family member offer to go with the survivor to see a counselor or doctor can be a great first step toward feeling comfortable getting assistance.  It may be helpful for friends or family to seek their own counseling as well.