Student in Crisis
A crisis is a situation in which an individual's usual style of coping is no longer effective, and the emotional or physiological response begins to escalate. As emotions intensify, coping becomes less effective, until the person may become disoriented, non-functional, or attempt harm. If a student is in a serious mental health crisis, you might see or hear the following:
- Suicidal statements or suicide attempts
- Written or verbal threats, or attempted homicide or assault
- Destruction of property or other criminal acts
- Extreme anxiety resulting in panic reactions
- Inability to communicate (e.g., garbled or slurred speech, disjointed thoughts)
- Loss of contact with reality (e.g., seeing or hearing things that aren't there)
- Highly disruptive behavior (e.g., hostility, aggression, violence)
Student Experiencing Stress
Stress is a part of every student's life.
However, there are some indicators that, when present over time, suggest that a student's stress level may be a cause for concern. In these circumstances, you might see or hear the following:
- Uncharacteristic changes in academic performance
- Uncharacteristic changes in attendance at class or meetings
- Depressed or lethargic mood
- Hyperactivity and/or rapid speech
- Social withdrawal
- Marked change in personal dress, hygiene, eating and/or sleeping routines
- Repeatedly falling asleep in class
- Requests for special consideration
- New or recurrent behavior that pushes the limits and that interferes with the effective management of your class
- Unusual or exaggerated emotional response to events
How You Can Help Students in Distress
What To Do When You Suspect a Serious Crisis
If you believe there may be imminent danger of harm to a student or someone else, as evidenced by several of the crisis symptoms listed under the Student in Crisis Section, immediately call the Campus Police 229 931-2245 for assistance. You may also consider walking the student to the Counseling Center. Doing so is an excellent way of showing your concern and support, and helps ensure that the student receives the help they need.
Students experiencing a crisis that requires immediate attention may speak with a counselor during our regular business hours (8:00 am and 11:30 am, 12:45 pm and 4:30 pm Monday through Thursday, and between 8:00 am and 11:30 am, and 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm Friday) students may call 229-931-2708 or drop by the center and identify that they are in crisis. You may also call campus safety at 229-931-2245.
Students who are experiencing an immediate life-threatening emergency should call 911.
Other Crisis Resources:
The Georgia Crisis & Access Line is staffed with professional social workers and counselors 24 hours per day, every day to assist those with urgent and emergency needs.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day.
