Important Notes:
*Keep in mind these could be triggering questions for many students
*If student self-reports lower than a 5 on a sliding scale question, possible counselor referral needed
*If student has a difficult time (beyond appropriate shyness) answering many of these vulnerable questions, a possible counseling referral may be needed
*If a student shares any yellow or red flags with you let them know that you WILL touch base with the school counselor, but they can choose if they want to proceed with the counselor
(Student may be struggling with addiction, or ongoing drug/alcohol use)
Start with validation, thank them for sharing that they are struggling, or that they have shared such a hard thing
Ask questions about stress or challenges: “What’s causing you trouble?”
Offer to listen without judgment
If a student has reported* that they are struggling with drugs/alcohol, you may want to ask:
“Are you interested in receiving support?”
How can I support you at this time?
Have you told anyone else? Is there anyone else you feel comfortable sharing this with?
Share community resources in case something goes wrong off site or after hours, and see if you can refer to site counselor
*Refer to Admin/Counselor for support in reporting responsibilities
GET SUPPORT TO GIVE SUPPORT!
Try and have Admin support while talking to a student under the influence
Talking to a student who may be under the influence
o DISCLAIMER: if you feel, notice, assume…… a student is under the influence while you are meeting with them (virtually or in person) STOP, assess for safety, DO NOT leave the student alone and notify ADMIN IMMEDIATELY while with the student
“I notice you seem different today/off today, it appears you are not yourself today.”
“Your safety is my responsibility and priority and at this time I feel I need to call for help”
“Did you take anything? If so, can you tell me what it is, how much, and what time? (this information will be helpful when calling for help)”
PAY ATTENTION to body signs: eye movement, body control, slurring their words, or rapid communication, abnormal behavior, complexion, confusion
Talking to a student who has reported they have used Drugs and Alcohol:
o Start with validation, thank them for sharing such a hard thing
o “Are you interested in receiving support?”
o “How can I support you at this time?”
o “Have you told anyone else? Is there anyone else you feel comfortable sharing?”
o Share community resources in case something goes wrong off site or after hours, and see if you can refer to site counselor
o *Refer to Admin/Counselor for support in reporting responsibilities