As a person who works with students on a daily basis, you have a unique opportunity to interact with students and observe their behaviors. Many students view faculty and staff members as role models for whom they have respect and admiration. Therefore, students may turn to you for advice and support when they are going though periods of stress and uncertainty.
Here are some tips to help you establish an appropriate supportive relationship with students who request your help:
Signs of Emotional Distress in Students
It is not uncommon for students to experience periods of depression or anxiety over the course of their college years. Some behaviors may be signs of more acute distress, however, and may warrant professional intervention. The following is a list of behaviors that many indicate the student needs help:
How to Make a Referral to the Counseling Center
You may call the Counseling Center and discuss your concerns with a staff member. The Counseling Center offers same-day brief assessmentsto help students evaluate their needs and access the right services. Students do not require an appointment to be seen for a brief assessment. Students can also make an appointment for counseling by calling or coming by the Counseling Center.
UM Counseling Center records are confidential and the privacy of communication between clients and mental health professionals is protected by law. Information about a student or their treatment cannot be disclosed to others, including the individual who made the referral, without written consent from the student.
Counseling Center Services:
In case of after-hours psychological emergencies, a counselor from the Counseling Center can be reached through Public Safety at 305-284-6666.
For help in coping with sexual assaults, a Sexual Assault Resource Team advocate can be reached during the regular academic year at 305-798-6666.