Tips For Recognizing Distressed Students
At one time or another everyone feels upset or distressed. However, there are three
levels of
student distress which, when present over a period of time, suggest that the problems
are
more than the "typical" ones.
Level 1
- Changes in academic performance in the classroom
- Significant drop in examination scores
- Change in pattern of interaction
- Changes in physical appearance
- Problems concentrating & remembering things or making decisions
Level 2
- Repeated request for special consideration
- New or regularly occurring behavior which pushes the limits and may interfere with class
- Management or be disruptive to other students, faculty, or staff
- Unusual or exaggerated emotional responses
- Persistent sadness or unexplained crying
- High levels of irritability or inappropriate excitement
Level 3
- Highly disturbed behavior
- Outbursts of anger
- Inability to communicate clearly
- Irrational conversation or speech that seems disconnected
- Loss of contact with reality (seeing/hearing things that are not there, beliefs or actions at odds with reality)
- Suspiciousness, irrational feelings of persecution
- Statements related to death or dying or feelings of hopelessness
- Threats of harming self or harming others
What Can You Do To Help?
For those exhibiting level 1 and 2 behaviors, please complete the UBIT Concern Report
Form.
For those exhibiting Level 3 behavior, we ask that you stay calm, find someone to
stay with the
person if possible, and immediately call University Police Department at 1000.
Responding To Suicidal Concerns
When a student makes any reference to suicide, threat of suicide, or attempt at suicide,
a judgment
should be made by a mental health professional about the seriousness of a possible
suicidal thought or behavior. Suicide attempts are first and foremost a medical emergency.
If danger or suicidal
behavior appears imminent: 1) Stay calm and 2) Contact University Police Department
at 1000.