Watch for These Distress Signals

Marked changes in academic performance or behavior:

• Poor class performance and preparation
• Excessive absences or tardiness
• Repeated requests for special consideration
• Unusual or changed pattern of interaction
• Domination or withdrawal of participation
• Excessive anxiety or fear
• Unusual agitation, irritability, or explosiveness
• Prolonged depression, tearfulness, or lack of energy
• Implied or direct threats about hurting self or others

Unusual behavior or appearance:

• Depressed or lethargic mood
• Mood swings
• Hyperactivity or rapid speech
• Exaggerated emotional responses, anger, or crying
• Change in personal hygiene or dress
• Decline in health habits or evidence of hurting oneself
• Visible cuts, scars, or wounds and/or attempts to conceal these
• Unexplained injuries

Reference to suicide, homicide, or death:

• Overt reference to suicide or wish to die
• Previous suicide attempts
• Expressed thoughts of helplessness or hopelessness
• Isolation from family or friends
• Submitted papers or journal entries expressing suicidal or homicidal ideation
• Inappropriate references to death and dying
• Threats of violence

Problems in social relationships:

• Lack of friendships
• Little or no interaction with others
• Lack of family ties and support

Traumatic or stressful events:

• Death of a loved one
• Changes in close relationships (divorce, separation, breakup)
• Serious illness

Alcohol and drug use:

• Misuse of drugs and alcohol and/or high risk drinking behaviors
• Alcohol and/or drug use to avoid or cope with depression
• Hangover or after effects of misuse