Dealing with distressed individuals
You may be one of the first individuals to notice that something is wrong or that a person is distressed. Although emotional distress may be expected, especially during times of high stress, you may notice that a person is acting out of character or in ways that are inconsistent with typical behavior. Often, the person’s behavior may cause you to become upset or worried. You may be a resource in times of trouble, and your expression of interest and concern may be critical in helping the individual regain emotional stability. You may also be in a good position to use campus and community resources so that appropriate interventions can occur. Refer to the enclosed campus card for resources in your area.
- Marked change in performance or behavior
- Excessive absence or tardiness
- Trouble eating and/or sleeping
- Disruptive behavior
- Undue aggressiveness
- Exaggerated emotional response that is disproportionate to the situation
- Depressed or lethargic mood
- Hyperactivity or very rapid speech
- Marked change in personal hygiene
- Excessive confusion
- Dramatic weight loss or gain
- Dependency (e.g., individual spends an inordinate amount of time around you or makes excessive appointments to see you)
- Behavior indicating loss of contact with reality
- Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
- References to suicide
- References to homicide or assault
- Isolation from friends, family or classmates
- Giving away personal or prize possessions
- Preparing for death by making a will and final arrangements
- DO trust your intuition.
- DO speak with the individual privately and express your willingness to help in a direct and nonjudgmental manner.
- DO let the individual know you are concerned about the individual’s welfare.
- DO listen carefully to what the individual is upset about; actively listen.
- DO acknowledge the feelings of the individual; help explore options.
- DO point out that help is available and that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage, rather than weakness or failure.
- DO suggest resources; make personal referrals when possible and call ahead to brief the person.
- DO maintain clear and consistent boundaries and expectations; recognize your own limits.
- DO call 911 if you are concerned for your immediate safety or that of others, or if the individual needs immediate attention.
- DO consult with an appropriate mental health resource if you are concerned for the individual but you are not concerned about any immediate danger (e.g., sexual assault, recent loss); see enclosed campus card for resources.
- DO refer an individual to an appropriate campus or community resource for support related to personal or academic issues. When in doubt, contact your supervisor or chair/director.
- DON’T ignore the unusual behavior.
- DON’T minimize the situation.
- DON’T ignore warning signs about the individual’s safety or the safety of others.
- DON’T promise confidentiality.
- DON’T judge or criticize.
- DON’T make the problem your own.
- DON’T involve yourself beyond the limits of your time, skill or emotional well-being.
Contact
For more information about services or to schedule an appointment, contact Elizabeth Inkinen Schehl, PCC-S, at ext. 4219 or eschehl@starkstate.edu. You also can stop by room B230G on main campus to schedule an appointment.
For services at Stark State College Akron, please stop by A113N or the front Gateway office to schedule an appointment.
If you’re in a counseling emergency 24/7, please call the Stark County Crisis Center at 330-452-6000, Summit County at 330-493-9144, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), 988 or the Crisis Text Line by texting 4HOPE to 741-741. Services are provided at no cost to Stark State College students.
Counseling support
Contact us
Elizabeth Inkinen Schehl
Mental Health and Community Outreach Director/Judicial Affairs Officer
330-494-6170 ext. 4219
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