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Dealing with distressed students

• Distress Signals
• Intervention Guidelines
• Who to Contact

A Guide for Macquarie University Staff
Material provided by Monash University Community Services

Distress Signals

1. Depression
2. Agitation or Acting Out
3. Disorientation
4. Drug and Alcohol Abuse
5. Suicidal Thoughts
6. Violence and Aggression
   

Intervention Guidelines

1. Safety First
2. Avoid Escalation
3. Ask Direct Questions
4. Do Not Assume You Are Being Manipulated
5. Know Your Limits

Who to Contact

Any member of the Macquarie University community may come into contact with a distressed student. Being aware of distress signals, methods of intervention, and sources of help for the student can help you feel more in control of situations that may arise. The counsellors at the Counselling Service are available to faculty and staff for consultation regarding these issues. Feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss these matters further.

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Distress Signals

Listed below are some of the more prevalent signs of someone in distress. This list is intended to provide basic information only.

1. Depression
   While we all may feel depressed from time to time, "normal" depressions may consist of only one or two symptoms and usually pass within days. Clinically depressed students will exhibit multiple symptoms for a longer period of time. Some of these symptoms are sleep disturbances, poor concentration, change in appetite, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, withdrawal, poor hygiene, loss of self-esteem, and preoccupation with death.

2. Agitation or Acting Out
   This would represent a departure from normal or socially appropriate behaviour. It might include being disruptive, restless or hyperactive, being antagonistic, and an increase in alcohol and/or drug abuse.

3. Disorientation
   Some distressed students may seem "out of it." You may witness a diminishment in awareness of what is going on around them, forgetting or losing things, misperception of facts or reality, rambling or disconnected speech, and behaviour that seems out of context or bizarre.

4. Drug and Alcohol Abuse
   Signs of intoxication during class or interaction with University officials are indicative of a problem that requires attention.

5. Suicidal Thoughts
   Most people who attempt suicide communicate early messages about their distress. These messages can range from "I don't want to be here", to a series of vague "goodbyes", to "I'm going to kill myself." Non-verbal messages could include giving away valued items, and putting legal, financial, and University affairs in order. All of the above messages should be taken seriously.

6. Violence and Aggression
   You may become aware of students who may be dangerous to others. This may be manifested by physically violent behaviour, verbal threats, threatening e-mail or letters, harassing or stalking behaviour, and papers or exams that contain violent or threatening material.

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Intervention Guidelines

While it is not expected that you be a "watchdog" or that you provide a thorough assessment, you may be the first contact for a student in distress and in a position to ask a few questions. Following these guidelines can lead to a positive outcome for all parties.

1. Safety First!
   Always keep safety in mind as you interact with a distressed student. Maintain a safe distance and a route of escape should you need. If danger to you or the student seems imminent, call Security on 9999.

2. Avoid Escalation
   Distressed students can sometimes be easily provoked. Avoid threatening, humiliating, and intimidating responses. It is usually not a good idea to "pull rank" and assert authority unless you are certain of the student's mental health status. Distressed students need you to listen and affirm their feelings. You can always remind them of rules at a later time.

3. Ask Direct Questions
   Take a calm and matter-of-fact approach. Ask students directly if they are drunk, confused or if they have thoughts of harming themselves. You need not be afraid to ask these questions. You will not be "putting ideas in their heads" by doing so. Most distressed students are relieved to know that someone has noticed and is paying attention.

4. Do Not Assume You Are Being Manipulated
   While it is true that some students appear distressed in order to get attention or relief from responsibility, only a thorough assessment can determine this. Attention-seekers can have serious problems and be in danger, too.

5. Know Your Limits
   You will be able to assist many distressed students on your own by simply listening and referring them for further help. Some students will, however, need much more than you can provide. Accept that you may not be out of your depth and organise an appropriate referral. Some signs that you may have over-extended yourself include:
   • Feeling stressed out or overwhelmed by the situation
   • Feeling angry at the student
   • Feeling afraid
   • Having thoughts of "adopting" or otherwise rescuing the student
   • "Reliving" similar experiences of your own

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