If You're Concerned About a Student

We provide consultation services to parents, other students, faculty, staff, and other professionals who are concerned about the emotional well-being of a student.  Our staff can offer suggestions to help you address your concerns.

Please let us assist you if you notice a student has:

1. Adjustment/Transition Concerns

The desire for assistance in dealing with a problem may be stated directly or indirectly.  For this reason, it is important not only to attend to the content of what a student may say but to understand the intentions and feelings underlying his or her message.  Listening involves hearing the way things are being said, noticing the tone used, and observing the expressions and gestures employed.  In fact, having someone listen attentively to an expression of a problematic feeling or thought is often a cathartic experience for the speaker which, in and of itself, can result in that individual feeling somewhat better.

2. References to Suicide

Any reference to committing suicide should be considered serious.  A judgment about the seriousness and possible lethality of the suicidal thought or gesture should be made with consultation with a Counseling Center Staff Professional (937-229-3141).

In the case of an actual suicide attempt, immediately call 911 or Public Safety (937-229-2121).

3. Changes in Mood or Behavior

Actions which are inconsistent with an individual's normal behavior may indicate that he or she is experiencing psychological distress.  An individual, who withdraws from usual social interaction, demonstrates an unwillingness to communicate, commits asocial acts, has spells of unexplained crying or outbursts of anger, or demonstrates unusual irritability may be suffering from symptoms associated with a psychological problem.

4. Anxiety and/or Depression

Anxiety and depression are two of the more common symptoms which can present significant problems for students.  Both of these rather common emotional states can impair an individual's normal functioning when they become prolonged or severe.  When an individual's ability to function in a usual manner becomes impaired because of anxiety or depression, some kind of assistance should be recommended.

5. Psychosomatic Symptoms

Individuals who experience tension-induced headaches, nausea, or other physical pains which have no apparent organic cause may be experiencing psychosomatic symptoms.  Such psychosomatic symptoms are physically real, including the pain.  Other physical symptoms of possible problems may include a loss of appetite or excessive eating, insomnia or excessive sleeping, gastrointestinal distress or gynecological problems.

6. Traumatic Changes in Relationships

Personal problems often result when an individual experiences a traumatic change in a personal relationship.  The death of a family member or close friend, difficulties in marriage or family relationships, divorce, changes in family responsibilities, and difficulties in other significant relationships can all result in increased stress and psychological difficulties.

7. Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Indications of excessive drinking, drug abuse or drug dependence are almost always indicative of psychological problems.  In the case of a drug overdose or severe drug reaction, call Public Safety at 937-229-2121.

8. Any Other Psychological Concerns