How to Support Students
Reach Out & Listen
- Email or talk to the student in a confidential setting, if possible.
- Express concern.
- Engage in conversation and genuinely listen.
- Acknowledge the student’s situation and avoid judgment.
- Reflect back.
- Ask questions to assess where they are at:
- Do you have a plan to resolve the situation?
- What have you thought about doing?
- What resources do you have?
- Do you have a support system? Have you thought about reaching out to them?
- Have you thought about harming yourself or someone else?
- Are you suicidal? Do you have a plan?
Support & Assist the Student
- Express a desire to help. Ask how you can be of help.
- Develop a plan with the student on the next steps they can take.
- Help the student set reasonable limits and expectations.
- Set clear boundaries regarding the level of help you can offer.
- Help the student identify other sources of help.
- Ask if you can call or email the unit on their behalf. Copy the student in the email if appropriate
- If appropriate, discuss ways you can follow up to see how they are doing later on.
Important: Do not promise confidentiality. Threats to self and others, sexual assault, and abuse must be reported.
Submit a Referral
Complete a Student Support Request/Referral form as soon as possible. When we receive referrals:
- We try respect the trust/rapport you’ve built with the student.
- When possible, we will first consult with the reporter and gather information.
- We seek to address concerns at the lowest level that is appropriate.
- We strive to respond to reports within in two (2) business days.