Responding to Distress

1. Stay Calm. Try not to take it personally — the student's reactions are about them and not you.
2. Mention Observable Behaviors. When you notice something, say something.
3. Be Supportive. Let the individual know you are concerned. 
4. Listen Without Judgment. Avoid offering advice or solutions or diagnoses. 
5. Remember the Positives. Let them know what they are doing well and what strengths they have.
6. If you see or hear something concerning, be direct and ask “Have you had thoughts of hurting or killing yourself or someone else?”  If they mention self-harm, suicide or hurting someone, take it seriously! Even if they’re joking, it still could be a cry for help.
7. Provide a Referral.  Ask if they'd like to talk with a professional who can help.  Is there an underlying issue that needs to be addressed, such as housing or food insecurity?
8. Consult with a supervisor or Roo Wellness Counseling Services if needed.
9. Make a report with the CARE Team for a staff member to follow-up with the student to offer support and resources.
10. Take care of yourself.  Recognize your limits and set boundaries; don’t hesitate to reach out for help for yourself, too!

Making a Referral

• You may be unsure what to say, but you can start the conversation with "I've noticed you haven't been yourself lately--is everything alright?"
• Allow them to discuss their feelings, which is often what a person needs most.
• Acknowledge their situation:  "It sounds like you have a lot going on right now, have you thought about speaking with a counselor to help you sort through everything?"
• If you see or hear something concerning, be direct and ask “Have you had thoughts of hurting or killing yourself/someone else?” If they mention self-harm, suicide, or hurting someone, take it seriously! Even if they’re joking, it still could be a cry for help.  If a student shares that they have a plan or have attempted self-harm before, they may need immediate help.
• Offer to walk with the student.  Roo Wellness Counseling Services offers crisis walk-in hours Monday through Friday at 10-11AM and again at 2-3PM.  Otherwise, they can call 816-235-1635 to make an appointment.
• Please see other campus and community resources listed below.
• Make a report with the CARE Team for a staff member to follow-up with the student to offer support and resources.

Managing a Crisis

• Ensure the safety of yourself and anyone else present.
• Stay calm and non-confrontational to defuse and de-escalate the situation.
• Address the disruption in the moment and in private, if possible.  Clarify expectations by explaining what behaviors are inappropriate; notify the student that if the behavior persists, they will be asked to leave and further action may be taken, including disciplinary action.
• For immediate safety concerns, call UMKC Police (816-235-1515) or 911.
• Report the incident to your supervisor.
• Make a report with the CARE Team for a staff member to follow-up with the student to offer support and resources.