Advising Students in Mental Distress

Within an academic setting, students may manifest symptoms of distress at one time or another, creating alarm for academic advisors. Advisors encounter students who exhibit signs of anxiety, aggression, depression, or even suicidal tendencies. Knowing how to assess the situation and determine appropriate action is key to dealing with students in distress. Advisors are not expected to diagnose a student for mental competence. However, if students exhibit any of the signs listed below they may need to be referred to the Counseling Center for assistance.

Symptoms (expressed or prevailing)

• Noticeable change in student demeanor

• Lack of sleep/sleep disturbance

• Significant weight loss or gain

• Emotional distress

• Frequent illness

• Fear of physical and emotional states

• Poor concentration

• Forgetfulness

• Verbally aggressive comments

• Physical outburst possibly in class or in office

• Hostile or intimidating demeanor (verbal/nonverbal)

• Appears dazed

• Shows lack of connection with reality

Don’ts

• Don’t take on the student’s responsibilities. "I’ll take care of that for you."

• Don’t discount anxiety by down playing the student’s situation. "It’s not that bad."

• Don’t say, "don’t worry" or "crying won’t help."

• Don’t encourage behavior (taunt, belittle, patronize).

• Don’t be baited into an argument.

• Don’t confront or make verbal threats.

Do’s

• Do set clear and explicit guidelines.

• Do allow student to explain her situation. This alone can reduce anxiety.

• Do not feel as though you must solve student’s problems.

• Do establish a plan within your department ahead of time to deal with an unexpected student outburst (i.e. a code message).

• Do allow student to be heard (If student is remaining reasonable calm).

• Do alert necessary parties if you foresee a potential campus concern.

• Do speak calmly and quietly.

• Do communicate sincere concern.

• Do offer to make an appointment for counseling.

• Do keep distance from student if situation warrants.

• Do establish grounds for referral.