Distressed Students
Sometimes it can be difficult to discern whether a student's disruptive behavior is a discipline or mental health issue. Some disruptive behaviors can stem from emotional or psychological problems. Listed below are some general disruptive signals and behaviors caused by emotional distress.
Signals
- Depression: poor concentration, loss of interest, withdrawal
- Agitation: anxious, cannot sit still
- Disorientation: seems 'out of it', may exhibit bizarre behavior
- Suicidal expression, thoughts or threats
- Alcohol or drug abuse: including coming to class intoxicated
Behavior
- Increased irritability, undue aggressive or abrasive behavior
- Excessive procrastination, poor class attendance, little or no work completed
- Marked change in personal hygiene
- Dependency (e.g., the student who hangs around or makes excessive appointments to see you)
- Alarming or dangerous behaviors
