Tips for Recognizing Troubled Students

At one time or another everyone feels depressed, anxious or upset. There is a difference between students who are in a serious mental health crisis and those who are suffering from general levels of distress. Understanding the difference will help you respond appropriately to the situation.

Students in Distress

• serious grade problems or a change from consistently good to unaccountably poor performance
• excessive absences, especially if the student has previously demonstrated consistent class attendance
• unusual or markedly changed pattern of interaction (e.g., totally avoiding participation, becoming excessively anxious when called upon, dominating discussions, etc.)
• a depressed, lethargic mood, excessive activity and talking (very rapid speech), swollen and red eyes, marked change in personal dress and hygiene, sweaty (when room is not hot), falling asleep in class
• frequently missing morning classes on Mondays, Fridays or the day after a holiday possibly due to alcohol and drug use
• repeated requests for special consideration, such as deadline extensions, especially if the student appears uncomfortable or highly emotional disclosing the circumstances prompting request
• new or regularly occurring behavior which pushes the limits of decorum and interferes with the effective management of your class
• unusual or exaggerated emotional response which is obviously inappropriate to the situation
• references to escaping, disappearing, and/or running away from stressors; subtle statements of wanting to die or getting into an accident to relieve self from responsibilities

Students in a Serious Mental Health Crisis

• highly disruptive behavior (hostile, aggressive, violent, etc)
• inability to communicate clearly (garbled, slurred speech, unconnected or disjointed thoughts)
• loss of contact with reality (seeing, hearing things which "aren't there," beliefs or actions greatly at odds with reality or probability)
• overtly suicidal statements (referring to suicide as a current option)
• homicidal threats