Faculty and Staff Resources

Students in Distress: A Guide for Faculty and Staff

What You Can Do
If you have noticed any of these warning signs, you are faced with the decision of whether or not to intervene. Your interest in your student’s well-being can make an important difference to a person in distress and may also help the student be successful at MU.

If You Decide to Intervene:

1. Talk to the student privately to help minimize embarrassment and defensiveness.
2. Do not promise the student confidentiality regarding what he or she shares.
3. Listen carefully and respond to both the content and the emotions of the situation.
4. Talk to the student directly, honestly and concretely.
5. Discuss your observations and perceptions of the student’s behavior(s) which lead you to be concerned.
6. Express your concern in a non-judgmental way; avoid negative comments or implications about personality or character. Respect the student’s value system, even if you do not agree with it.
7. Encourage response or expression of thoughts and/or feelings from the student. Accept what is received.
8. Assist the student with problem-solving: identify options for action and explore the pros and cons of each option.
9. Let the student know the limits on your ability to help him or her.
10. If the student appears to be in imminent danger of hurting himself or herself or others, call MUPD at 882-7201.
11. If you would like to consult about a situation, call the Counseling Center at 882-6601.