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Student Profile | Differences | Learning Environments
Students with Varying Life Circumstances
Students at an institution such as Ohio State balance a diverse number of life circumstances. In addition to those populations mentioned earlier, students may have families, work full-time, deal with anxiety, or live with mental health concerns. A recent survey demonstrated that of the student population interviewed, 91% reported feelings of being overwhelmed during the year. 25% of the student population has sought mental health assistance for life circumstances ranging from unhappiness in romantic relationships to concerns about suicide.
A resource published at Penn State, about recognizing students in distress, offers these suggestions for recognizing when life circumstances may be causing distress:
Tips for Recognizing Distressed Students
At one time or another, everyone feels depressed or upset. The following may help to identify some symptoms which, when presented over a period of time, suggest that the problems with which the person is dealing are more than the "normal" ones.- Marked Change in Academic Performance
- Poor performance and preparation
- Excessive absences or tardiness
- Repeated requests for special consideration, especially when this represents a change from previous functioning
- Avoiding participation
- Dominating discussions
- Excessively anxious when called upon
- Disruptive behavior
- Exaggerated emotional response that is obviously inappropriate to the situation
- Unusual Behavior or Appearance
- Depressed or lethargic mood
- Hyperactivity or very rapid speech
- Deterioration in personal hygiene or dress
- Dramatic weight loss or gain
- Strange or bizarre behavior indicating loss of contact with reality
- Observable signs of an injury
- References to Emotional or Life Stressors
- Problems with roommates, family, or romantic partners
- Experiencing a death of a significant other
- Experiencing a physical or sexual assault
- Experiencing discrimination based on gender, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disabilities
- Experiencing legal difficulties
- Any other problem or situation that is experienced as a loss or stress
- References to Suicide, Homicide, or Death
- Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
- Verbal or written references to suicide
- Verbal or written references to homicide or assaultive behavior
- Isolation from friends, family, and classmates
Refer When Appropriate
There may be situations where referral is your best option. Circumstances that may indicate referral include:- The problem is beyond your expertise or comfort zone;
- You feel too busy or personally stretched to be able or willing to help;
- Personal feelings about the student or their situation impair your objectivity or ability to help;
- The student conveys discomfort talking to you about the problem;
- The student asks for information or assistance you are unable to provide.
It is important to help the student understand your reason for referral so they do not feel that they are "too hot to handle" or that their concerns cannot be resolved.
Follow Up
It is often helpful to arrange a time to follow up with the student after you make a referral. This helps communicate your concern and interest.Maintain
Continue to maintain clear and consistent boundaries and expectations with the student in your staff or faculty role. previous page |
