Warning Signs of Student Distress

Common Causes of Emotional Distress

  • Relationship Breakup
  • Family Conflict
  • Loss of a Loved One
  • Divorce of Parents
  • Feeling Lonely
  • Academic Pressure or Failure
  • Serious Illness or Injury
  • Difficulty Adjusting to University
  • Not Fitting in with Peers
  • Unplanned Pregnancy
  • Religious Conflicts
  • Sexual Abuse or Assault
  • Physical Abuse of Assault
  • Identity Confusion
  • Depression
  • Drug/Alcohol Use
  • Disordered Eating
  • Career Indecision
  • Loss of Goal or Dream
  • Occupational Setback

Common Warning Signs of Student Distress

Academic Problems

  • Career and Course Indecision
  • Excessive Procrastination
  • Uncharacteristically Poor
  • Preparation Performance
  • Repeated Requests for Extensions or Special Considerations
  • Excessive Absence/Tardiness
  • Avoiding or Dominating Discussions
  • References to Suicide or Homicide in Verbal Statements or Writing
  • Disruptive Classroom Behavior

Interpersonal Problems

  • Asking Instructor for Help with Personal Problems
  • Dependency on Advisor
  • Hanging around Office
  • Disruptive Behavior
  • Inability to Get Along with Others
  • Complaints from Other Student
  • Student Isolating Self from Others

Behavioral Problems

  • Change in Personal Hygiene
  • Dramatic Weight Gain or Loss
  • Frequently Falling Asleep in Class
  • Irritability
  • Unruly Behavior
  • Impaired Speech
  • Disjointed Thoughts
  • Tearfulness
  • Intense Emotion
  • Inappropriate Responses
  • Difficulty Concentrating
  • Physically Harming Self