Consider the situation and determine the appropriate next steps and appropriate available resources.
Does the student need immediate assistance?
Yes
- The student has a weapon and is threatening to use it,
- is threatening immediate serious self-harm or harm to others,
- or has engaged in a behavior that requires medical attention
What to Do
If there is an imminent danger to the student, you, or others:
Call UWM PD (414-229-9911) or 911
I’m Not Sure
- Signs of distress are visible, but the severity is unclear.
- The interaction has left you feeling uneasy or concerned about the student and you’re not sure how to proceed.
What to Do
- Consult with Counseling Services (414-229-7429) on how best to support the student.
- Contact the UW Mental Health Support Line 24/7 (888-531-2142)
- Utilize the national crisis line (988)
No
- I’m not concerned for the student’s immediate safety, but they are having significant academic and/or personal issues and could use support.
What to Do
- See our list of campus resources below and help to connect the student with support on campus.
- Visit the Dean of Student’s Support U website for additional referral and resource information.
Mandatory Reporting
In addition to referring a student to resources, any sexual misconduct, intimate partner abuse (including dating and domestic violence), stalking, protected-class discrimination or harassment, or related retaliation must be reported to the Title IX Office. It is important to disclose your status as a mandated reporter and help to connect students to a confidential resource if that is what they prefer. Confidential resources are identified with this symbol:
For questions regarding these issues or the obligation to report, please contact The Title IX Office at 414-229-7012.
Campus Resources
- Counseling Services:
- Student Health and Wellness Center Counseling: 414-229-7429
- UWM at Waukesha Counseling: wak-counseling@uwm.edu (This is a confidential email address that is only accessed by the Counseling Department)
- Crisis Services:
- UW Mental Health Support Line 24/7 – call (888-531-2142)
- Ascension Columbia-St. Mary’s Emergency Services (24/7) – 414-291-1200
- Milwaukee County Crisis Line: 414-257-7222
- Washington County Crisis Line: 262-365-6565
- Waukesha County Crisis Line:
- Business Hours: 262-548-7666
- Non-Business Hours: 262-547-3388
- 24/7 Suicide Prevention Hotlines
- UW Mental Health Support Line 24/7 – call (888-531-2142)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ Youth: 1-866-488-7386
- Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8555 (press 1)
- Crisis Text Line: 741-741
- Victim Survivor Support: 414-229-4582, victimadvocacy@uwm.edu
- Dean of Students: 414-229-4632, https://uwm.edu/deanofstudents/
- SHAW Medical Services: 414-229-7429, https://uwm.edu/wellness/
What’s Next?
If You Remain Concerned About the Student
- Consult with SHAW Counseling Services regarding best strategies moving forward.
- Consult with others who know the student and/or should be aware of the situation. Follow department protocols.
- Circle back with the student after a referral to a support resource to check in.
- Contact the Dean of Student Office for guidance at 414-229-4632 or dos@uwm.edu. Use the uwm.edu/reportit tool.
- Understand that due to privacy regulations, it may not always be possible for other campus resources to provide you with detailed information after a student referral.
Practice Self Care Strategies When Supporting Students
- Set good boundaries and refer the student to appropriate resources for support.
- Example statement: “I care about you and am here for you, but there are others on campus who would be better able to help you deal with the emotions that you are experiencing. I can help you get in touch with them and am always happy to support you in making these connections.”
- Consult with others if you feel uncomfortable or feel the situation has gone beyond your normal role. Trust yourself and set limits!
- Seek help when feeling stressed, anxious or down. You don’t have to “go it alone.” UWM’s Employee Assistance Program offers confidential and free services. Find more information at: uwm.edu/hr/eap/