When to Make a Report to the Care Team

Often, faculty or staff are in a position to offer a helping hand to students. If you are concerned that a student may be in a state of emotional distress, make a report. Each person has their own comfort level in terms of discussing issues with students. Do the best you can. The most important thing is that if you see something, you say or do something.

You should make a report when you notice changes or behaviors that you would consider unusual for that student. The list of behaviors below may be indicators of distress, especially when multiple signs are present.

Emergency reports should be made by dialing 911 or calling SUU Police at (435) 586-1911. Non-emergency reports should be made to the Care Team.

Indicators of Distress

Distress may show up in different ways in different students. It is always a good idea to make a report if you are concerned about a student. We don’t expect you to be an expert in mental health, just knowledgeable enough to know recognize when a student might need additional support.

Academic Indicators

  • Decline in grades
  • Repeated absences
  • Multiple requests for extensions
  • Considering leaving school
  • Disruption to learning environment
  • Inappropriate or concerning content in assignments
  • Excessive use of faculty's time

Psychosocial Indicators

  • Feeling sad more often than not
  • Feeling tense, worried, or experiencing panic attacks
  • Unprovoked anger
  • Impulsiveness, loss of self-control
  • Confused speech or behavior
  • Hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia
  • Overwhelming concern about finances, relationships, or role balance

Physical Indicators

  • Changes in physical appearance
  • Excessive fatigue or low energy
  • Agitated expression or movements
  • Excessive weight loss or gain
  • Bruises, cuts, or other injuries
  • Physical or verbal outbursts
  • Withdrawing socially
  • Change in non-verbal behavior

Safety Risk Indicators

  • Statements about death, dying, suicide, or homicide
  • Physical violence
  • Sexual assault
  • Stalking and/or harassment of any kind
  • Interpersonal violence
  • Drug or alcohol abuse
  • Threatening communication

Talk About It

If you are comfortable, broach the subject in a caring and supportive way. Clearly express your concern to the student and remind them that they have a personal responsibility as a member of the community. Respect the student's privacy, but don't promise confidentiality.

Engage in conversation by remaining calm, concise, and clear when speaking with the student. Gain a clear understanding of what the student is saying or asking. Ask the student about their support network. Listen! Don't minimize the problem or try to solve it too quickly.

Consult with someone - you can connect with the Dean of Students or another member of The Care Team.

Recommend appropriate resources - you can always refer to the Office of the Dean of Students when in doubt. Reassure the student that their decision to seek help or support is a wise choice - they are not alone. Offer to meet with the student again to follow up and check in on them.