Responding to Student Emergencies
Immediate and decisive intervention is needed when student behavior poses a threat to self or others, including:
- Suicidal gestures, intentions, or attempts
- Other behavior posing a threat to the student (e.g., hallucinations, drug abuse)
- Threats or aggression directed toward others
- Demonstrated inability to care for oneself
- Move the student to a quiet and secure place.
- Listen attentively, and respond in a straightforward and considerate way.
- Enlist the help of a co-worker so that the student isn't left alone and you aren't left alone with the student.
- Make arrangements for appropriate university intervention.
- When contacting a campus resource, have available as much information as possible, including your name; the student's name and location; a description of the circumstances and the type of assistance needed; the exact location of the student in the building; and an accurate description of the student.
Campus resources for responding to mental health emergencies are:
- Counseling Center in Shoemaker Building, (301) 314-7651
- Mental Health Service in the Health Center, (301) 314-8106
- Campus Police, 911 or (301) 405-3333
For consultation with a counselor, call (301) 314-7651 or walk the student to the Counseling Center in Shoemaker Building.
If the student requires immediate medical attention or hospitalization, call the Mental Health Service, (301) 314-8106).
If the student is unmanageable (e.g., aggressive, hostile, refusing care), call the Campus Police, 911 or (301) 405-3333, for assistance in transporting the student to the appropriate facility.
If you are directly threatened by a student or feel at risk, call the Campus Police, 911 or (301) 405-3333.