How to Respond to a Student in Distress
Young adults reach out to someone they trust 75% of the time. Here are some things to keep in mind if you decide to express your concerns to the student, or if they seek you for assistance.
Listen to the Student: Arrange to meet in private. Give the student your undivided attention with a non judgmental attitude. Try to get an accurate understanding of the situation. Often students are relieved to just vent and feel supported.
Be direct and non judgemental: Express your concerns by being direct and specific. Such as, “I’ve noticed you’ve been absent from class lately, and I’m concerned”, rather than, “Why have you missed so much class lately?”.
Be senstitive: Communicate understanding by repeating back the essence of what the student has told you. Try to reflect what was said. Such as: “It sounds like things are really hard right now.” Remember to let the student talk.
Refer: Point out that seeking help is a sign of strength. Let the student know that you think someone at the Counseling Center could help them and offer to help the student call to set up an appointment.
How to Respond to a Student in Crisis
If a student is in a serious mental health crisis, you may see or hear the following:
• Talking openly about death or committing suicide
• Homicidal threats (written or verbal) or attempts
• Destruction of property
• Extreme anxiety or agitation
• Inability to communicate (garbled or slurred speech, disjointed thoughts)
• Loss of contact with reality (seeing or hearing things)
• Highly disruptive behavior (hostility, aggression, violence, intimidation)
Respond Immediately.
Call University Police
(920) 424-1212
If you need help assessing the situation call the Counseling Center (920) 424-2061 between 8am-4:30pm Monday through Friday.