Supporting Students in Distress
24-Hour Crisis Hotlines
Signs of Distress
You might be the first person to recognize signs of distress and can help refer the person to resources that can help.
Academic Signs
- Bad or worsening grades
- Frequent lateness or absenteeism
- Change in level of participation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Falling asleep in class
- Missed, late or incomplete work
Behavioral Signs
- Self-Disclosure of distress
- Abrupt or extreme changes in mood
- Comments on feeling worthless or hopeless
- Lack of social interaction
- Agitation, nervousness, or irritability
- Giving possessions away
Physical Signs
- Change in appearance or hygiene
- Significant weight gain or loss
- Lack of energy
- Absence of facial expression
- Often intoxicated or high
- Disrupted sleep
Responding to Distress
Stay Calm
Try not to take it personally — the student's reactions are about them and not you.
Mention Observable Behaviors
When you notice something, say something.
Be Supportive
Let the individual know you are concerned.
Listen Without Judgment
Avoid offering advice or solutions or diagnoses.
Remember the Positives
Let them know what they are doing well and what strengths they have.
Provide a Referral
Ask if they'd like to talk with a professional who can help. Is there an underlying issue that needs to be addressed, such as housing or food insecurity?
Making a Referral
- You may be unsure what to say, but you can start the conversation with "I've noticed you haven't been yourself lately, is everything alright?"
- Allow them to discuss their feelings, which is often what a person needs most.
- Acknowledge their situation: "It sounds like you have a lot going on right now, have you thought about speaking with a counselor to help you sort through everything?"
- If you see or hear something concerning, be direct and ask "Have you had thoughts of hurting or killing yourself/someone else?" If they mention self-harm, suicide, or hurting someone, take it seriously! Even if they're joking, it still could be a cry for help. If a student shares that they have a plan or have attempted self-harm before, they may need immediate help.
- Offer to walk with the student. Roo Wellness Counseling Services offers crisis walk-in hours Monday through Friday at 10-11AM and again at 2-3PM. Otherwise, they can call 816-235-1635 to make an appointment.
Managing a Crisis
- Ensure the safety of yourself and anyone else present.
- Stay calm and non-confrontational to defuse and de-escalate the situation.
- Address the disruption in the moment and in private, if possible. Clarify expectations by explaining what behaviors are inappropriate; notify the student that if the behavior persists, they will be asked to leave and further action may be taken, including disciplinary action.
- For immediate safety concerns, call 91黑料网 Police (816-235-1515) or 911.
- Report the incident to your supervisor.
Additional Resources
91黑料网 Confidential Resources
- Roo Wellness
- Counseling, health and accessibility services