What to do:

Your first step in expressing concern is to set aside a time and a private place to talk to the student.  It’s helpful to approach the student as an interested, concerned human being rather than as an authority figure who knows what is best for the student.

It's important that you begin by describing the specific behaviors that have raised your concern. You can consult our online self-assessment screening feature if you have trouble defining for yourself exactly what behaviors you find worrisome.  Avoid global statements like, " You've been acting strange lately." Such statements give the student no real information and may lead him or her to feel judged, self-conscious, or defensive.

If, after describing the behaviors that concern you, the student does not seem willing to talk, you may want to:

Make it clear to the student that you can be available if the student changes his or her mind and wants to talk at a later time.

When you are referring students for professional counseling, you should be prepared for resistance. Students sometimes feel they should be able to work things out on their own, and they may react as though you are implying that they are "crazy" or "sick" if you suggest counseling. Your approach to the student and your personal attitude about counseling are extremely important at this point. It will help if you are familiar with the services of SPS and can comfortably describe them.  It may be especially helpful to refer to our individual and group stress management services through our Welness Skills Groups, as these sessions address a broad range of typical student concerns.

If a student is in crisis, you may want to accompany that student to SPS to be certain that he or she receives the needed services. Under these circumstances, when possible, it’s helpful to call ahead to let us know that you’re bringing a student to SPS for immediate walk-in services.

For additional tips, please go to: <How to Identify and Refer a Distressed Student>.