Embedded Files
The next several pages cover resources compiled by the The Center for Counseling and Wellness to help RAs understand the services offered at Calvin and how best to respond to a student in emotional distress. Your RD or AC will walk closely with you as various mental health concerns emerge in your community this year.
Guidelines for Responding to Emotionally Distressed Students
Guidelines for Responding to Emotionally Distressed Students
Level 1: A student with uncomfortable emotions
Level 1: A student with uncomfortable emotions
Examples:
Sadness
Stress/anxiety
Irritability
Social withdrawal
Family difficulties
Academic concerns
etc.
What to do
Listen, empathize, and encourage
Facilitate opportunities for peer connection
Peer Listener (7 Cups) program
Resident Assistant
Student Orgs
Group Fitness
ISDC groups & peer mentoring
Facilitate opportunities for staff support
Area Coordinator or Resident Director
Student Success
Campus Ministries
Health Services
Career Center
Mentoring Program
Encourage use of TAO Self-Help online
Check in occasionally to see how they're doing
Other Resources
calvin.edu/go/counseling
Level 2: A student with intensely and/or chronically uncomfortable emotions
Level 2: A student with intensely and/or chronically uncomfortable emotions
Examples
Frequent crying
Difficulty concentrating
Panic attacks
Behavioral outbursts
Social isolation
Non-lethal self-harm (ex. cutting)
Suicidal thoughts (with no intent to follow through)
etc.
What to do
Level 1 response, plus…
Ask directly about suicidal thoughts to make sure there’s no plan or intent, if unclear
Refer to counseling center, and provide support in scheduling appointment if student is willing
Call front desk: 616-526-6123
Help student access & complete appointment request form online (calvin.edu/go/counseling)
Inform of crisis support during business hours
Refer to other campus supports, as appropriate
Area Coordinator or Resident Director
Student Success
Campus Ministries
Health Services
Career Center
Intercultural Student Development Center
etc...
Consult with your supervisor
Other Resources
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255 (TALK)
Level 3: A student with evidence of danger to self or others
Level 3: A student with evidence of danger to self or others
Examples
Evidence of suicide plan or intent
Suicidal behavior
Evidence of plan to harm others
Homicidal behavior
Significant disconnection from reality
etc.
What to do
Contact campus emergency first-responders immediately
Campus Safety: 616-526-3333 (or x33333)
Residence Life Professional Staff on-call (for students in residence halls)
Work with first-responder to follow emergency protocol -- do NOT attempt to manage the situation on your own
Consult with your supervisor immediately
Apprise counseling center of situation
Other Resources
Pine Rest Contact Center: 800-678-5500
Discussing Emotions
Discussing Emotions
Use open-ended questions
"Can you tell me a bit about what's going on?“
Reflect thoughts & feelings
“You’re thinking that you don’t have what it takes to get through this.” (thought)
"You're feeling pretty frustrated.“ (feeling)
Provide empathy & validation
“I’ve been there too.”
“It’s okay to be having a hard time – this is hard stuff.”
Highlight strengths & successes
“You’ve made it through hard times before, and I know you can make it through this too.”
“You can do this!”
Referring to Resources
Referring to Resources
(ex. CCW screening, workshop, or online tools)
Start with their thoughts & experiences
“Have you thought about visiting the Center for Counseling and Wellness?”
Normalize the help-seeking experience
“A lot of students find it helpful to talk to a counselor when they’re having these kinds of feelings.”
Explore reluctance
“What has gotten in the way of you getting help?”
“What would keep you from talking to a counselor about these things?”
“Could it be worth taking this step even though it is difficult?”
Provide hope & support
“A lot of students use the Center for Counseling and Wellness and find it to be really helpful.”
“I think the resources at Counseling and Wellness could be really beneficial for you.”
“If you’d like, I can help you make the call to schedule an appointment.”
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