When Should I Consider Intervening When A Student Is Distressed?

The college years can be stressful for many. Most students cope adequately with stressors, but increasing numbers find that stress becomes unmanageable and interferes with learning. Students seek counseling for a variety of reasons, including stress, depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, physical or sexual abuse, academic difficulties, substance abuse, and identity concerns.

Sometimes, having a friend to talk over their problems with can be helpful. At other times the services of a psychologist or counselor may be helpful.

In general, you should consider referring students for counseling if their problems have compromised their ability to function academically, personally, or socially, or to take pleasure in life.

Some signs and symptoms of student distress are:

• procrastination and poorly prepared work
• infrequent class attendance
• significant decrease in level of energy
• falling asleep in class
• marked changes in personal hygiene
• impaired speech or garbled and disjointed thoughts
• threats to harm oneself or others demands immediate attention! Call your Area Coordinator, the Counseling Center (937-229-3141), or Public Safety (937-229-2121).
• high level of irritability
• marked change of mood, behavior, or attitude