Big Red Folder - How Faculty/Staff Can Help Students
The Dean of Student’s Office coordinates and collaborates with many different departments on campus to increase the health and safety of students and the campus. This website is a resource for faculty and staff who are working alongside students who are in distress or exhibiting concerning behavior. If you would prefer to consult with us in person regarding the situation, please contact us. If you feel the situation is urgent, please contact SUU Police.
If You See Something, Say & Do Something
Recognize, Respond, Refer
When students show signs of distress or concerning behavior, the important thing is to say something. If you are comfortable, you can inform the student about resources available to support them. If you are not comfortable, you can refer the student to the Dean of Students Office for follow-up.
If you're not sure how to handle the situation, the Dean of Students Office is here to help.
FERPA and Student Health & Safety
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) allows communication about a student of concern when it is an issue related to their health and safety or the health and safety of the campus community.
Causes of Distress and What to Watch For
- Excessive procrastination
- Poor preparation
- Excessive absence/tardiness
- Increased anxiety when around deadlines or exams
- Sudden drop in performance
- Disruptive in the classroom
- Very defensive
- Unable to get along with others
- Other students are complaining
- Does not work well in groups
- References to suicide or harm to others
- Extremely emotional
- Inappropriate responses
- Difficulty concentration
- Physically harming themselves
- Destruction of property
- Panic and anxiety
- Poor communication
- Dramatic weight loss/gain
- Dramatic change in appearance
- Irritable
- Disjointed thoughts
- Financial problems
- Relationship problems/breakups
- Family problems
- Grief and loss
- Divorce of parents or someone close
- Loneliness
- Academic pressure or failure
- Serious health issues or injuries
- Difficulty adjusting to college or being away from home
- Eating disorders
- Identity development
- Anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Unplanned pregnancy
- Language barriers
- Undecided in career path