Signs of Distress & What You Can Do
Below are a list of signs that students may exhibit in a variety of distressing situations. This is not an exhaustive list, but some initial thoughts to consider. In any case, we encourage you to first submit a CARE report so that we can support the student and you in addressing the situations. We also recommend directly addressing your concern with the student regarding their well-being and offereing any supports you may be able to provide them.
Potential Threat or Harm to Self/Others
Signs:
- History with mental health issues
- Demonstrating signs of high levels of anxiety/stress
- Signs of social withdrawal
- Belief in violence as an appropriate way to manage problems
- Signs of substance abuse
What Else Can You Do?
- If behavior includes any signs of threat, call UCPD
- If any behavioral violations occur, contact University of Cincinnati Student Code of Conduct and Community Standards at (513) 556-6814
Academic Distress
Signs:
- Immediate decline in student's academic work (e.g., failing to turn in assignments, lower grades on exams/quizzes)
- Decreased attendance
- Refusal to respond to professors during frequent attempts at communication
Emotional Distress
Signs:
- Death of a family member or friend
- Changes in student's personality, eating habits, and sleeping pattern
- Increased social withdrawal and isolation
- Signs of irritability and lack of concentration
- Behavior reflecting feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
What else can you do?
- Offer Counseling and Psychological Services as a resource for student and suggest that student make an appointment to meet with a counselor
Homelessness or Hunger
Signs:
- Student repeatedly wears same outfit
- Student demonstrates physical signs of fatigue, and failing to eat
- Student shows signs of not bathing, combing hair, and smelling body odor
- Student mentions skipping a meal
What else can you do?
- If student admits to homelessness provide resources including Bearcats Pantry, and additional on-campus resources for housing options
Emergency Situations
What can you do?
- Immediately call University of Cincinnati Police Department by dialing 911
- Be prepared to give UCPD details (who,what, where, when, why) about incident