AdvisingHandbook

Signs of a Distressed Student excessive absences | decline in academic performance | isolation | poor personal hygiene | unable to control emotions or behavior | evidence of alcohol or drug use |extreme fatigue| expresses emotional distress

Speak Directly with the Student

1. Schedule a one-on-one meeting. 2. Tell the student what you have witnessed about their behavior that has caused your concern. Be direct. 3. Ask open-ended questions; avoid questions that do not allow the student to explain. 4. Listen to student’s response in a nonjudgmental manner. 5. Restate what you have heard. 6. Refer the student to proper campus resources. 7. Do not promise to keep what the student tells you confidential.

Do I have a relationship with the student? i.e., professor, coach, advisor, staff member, etc.

YES

NO

Fill Out an Early Alert Form

Why? This will allow for the appropriate office on campus to be notified that a student may be struggling. Where is it housed? You can find the link to the form under “Quick Links” on WoodsNet. You will be required to sign into your Microsoft Office account using your SMWC credentials to fill out the form. Will it get to the counselor? Yes! Kalista is part of the Early Alert Committee. She will be notified of any mental health concerns for students and reach out accordingly.

Assess → Is this an emergency?

Yes to any of these = Emergency

1. Is there imminent danger of harm to self or others? 2. Is the student behaving in a threatening or violent way? 3. Does the student seem out of touch with reality? 4. Does anything else about the situation seem threatening or dangerous?

Is it urgent? There might be concerns that are not an emergency but are still urgent.

NO

Yes to any of these = Urgent

Expresses hopelessness | Noticeable self-injury wounds | Appears incoherent | Not eating

YES

NO

Next Steps

What to Say

OPTION 1 : Bring the student to the SMWC Student Counseling Center (Le Fer 139) or the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Office (Le Fer 138)

Asking for help is a sign of courage and strength!

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Who can you talk with about this?

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How about a visit to talk with Kalista? (Appointments can be made online, by email, or by calling)

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OPTION 2 : Contact Public Safety Phone: 812.535.6400

OPTION 3 : Call 911