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1. General Information
   • Mission
   • Code of Student Conduct/Policies
   • Records Policies/Disciplinary Clearances
   • Criminal Process vs. Student Judicial Process
   • Sexual Violence and Stalking
   • Sexual Harassment by Students
   • Interim Suspension
   • Stats
   • Disruptive Students
   • Troubled Students
2. Procedures
   • Resolution Options
   • Hearing information
   • Sanctions
   • Appeals
   • Charged student information
   • Complainant/victim information
   • Witness information
   • Advisor information
   • Parent Information

 What is my role?

As a staff or faculty member, you are in a good position to spot someone who may be emotionally distressed.  While some of this is to be expected, especially during stressful times of the year, you might notice someone acting in a way that is inconsistent with your normal experiences with that person.   You may be able to be a resource in times of trouble.  Your expression of interest and concern may be a critical factor in helping the individual reestablish emotional equilibrium.  You may also be able to alert the university so that an appropriate intervention can be made.

Possible signs of distress

· Marked change in academic performance or behavior

· Excessive absences or tardiness

· Has trouble eating or sleeping

· Disruptive behavior

· Undue aggressiveness

· Exaggerated emotional response that is obviously inappropriate 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 (individual hangs around or makes excessive appointments to see you)

· Strange or bizarre behavior indicating loss of contact with reality

· Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness

· Verbal or written references to suicide

· Verbal or written references to homicide or assaultive behavior

· Isolation from friends, family or classmates

· Gives away prized possessions

· Prepares for death by making a will and final arrangements

 The “Do’s”

· DO speak with the student privately.

· DO let him or her know you are concerned about his or her welfare.

· DO express your concern in behavioral, nonjudgemental terms.

· DO tell him or her you are willing to help.

· DO listen carefully to what he or she is troubled about.

· DO help him or her explore options.

· DO suggest resources.

· DO make a referral to the appropriate campus department.

· DO point out that help is available and seeking such help is a sign of strength and courage, rather than of weakness or failure.

· DO respect the person’s value system, even if you do not agree with it.

· DO maintain clear and consistent boundaries and expectations.

· DO recognize your limits.

· DO document the interactions or incident.

 The “Don’ts”

 · DON’T promise confidentiality.

· DON’T judge or criticize.

· DON’T ignore the unusual behavior.

· DON’T make the problems your own.

· DON’T involve yourself beyond the limits of your time or skill.

 Referrals and Resources

 · In a crisis situation, call OSU Police at 911.

· To consult regarding a student, call Counseling and Consultation Services at 292-5766. Refer to the website at http://www.ccs.osu.edu/.

· To consult regarding a faculty or staff member, call Organization and Human Resource Consulting at 292-2800. Refer to the website at http://hr.osu.edu/.

Adapted from  materials from University of Colorado at Boulder and Penn State University.