A QUICK REFERENCE FOR HELPING STUDENTS IN DISTRESS 1) RECOGNIZING SYMPTOMS OF DISTRESS - Problems with Academic Performance (e.g., absences, tardiness, poor performance)
- Problems with Career and Major (e.g., chronic indecisiveness, lack of alternatives)
- Unusual Behavior (e.g., disruptive behavior, excessive emotionality, aggressiveness)
- Traumatic Change in Relationships (e.g., death in family, divorce)
- References to Suicide
2) RESPONDING TO STUDENTS IN DISTRESS - Observe
- Initiate contact
- Offer support and assistance
- Consult with Counseling Center professionals at 410-617-5109
- Refer directly to a professional
3) RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES - Stay calm
- Talk in clear, straight-forward manner
- Do not leave student unattended
- Arrange for intervention:
Counseling Center 410-617-5109
Campus Police 410-617-5911 (if unusually aggressive or unmanageable)
4) MAKING A REFERRAL TO THE COUNSELING CENTER - Be caring, firm, and straight-forward in your recommendations
- Suggest that the student call or come in to make an appointment Humanities Center, Room 150, 410-617-5109
- Call or walk the student over yourself, if an emergency
- Remind the student that services are FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL
5) ABOUT THE COUNSELING CENTER - Intake interviews can be scheduled over the phone or in person
- Walk-in emergency counseling is available
- Phone consultation with a professional is available by calling 410-617-5109
- Services include individual counseling, group counseling, and psycho-educational workshops
6) REPORT BIZZARE OR DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR to the Dean of Students (x2842), Dean of Freshman (x5547) and/or Student Life (x2488 or x5081) * Partial information obtained from the Association of University Counseling Center Directors' resources. |
