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.