Recognizing signs of distress

norlin library

These are some of the most common signs of distress. Students may also present with signs that are not listed.

Academic

Sudden decline in quality of work and grades
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Frequently missed classes and assignments
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Disturbing content in projects, assignments or written communication (e.g., emails)
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Disruptive behavior in class or other settings
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Consistently seeking personal rather than professional advice from faculty or staff
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Sudden requests for extensions on projects or assignments
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Doesn't respond to repeated requests for meetings, follow-up or other forms of contact听
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Assignments are focused around themes of extreme hopelessness, helplessness, isolation, rage, despair, fear, violence, or self-harm

Sudden changes in physical appearance like hygiene or noticeable changes to weight
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Strange or bizarre behavior; losing touch with reality
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Visibly intoxicated or smelling of alcohol or marijuana; increased substance use/abuse
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Rapid speech, manic behavior or extreme mood swings
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Appears to be depressed or lethargic
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Signs of injury like facial bruising or cuts

Disclosing personal distress like family problems, financial difficulties, assault, discrimination or legal difficulties to staff or faculty
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Unusual or disproportionate emotional response to events
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Excessive tearfulness, panic attacks
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Verbal abuse like taunting, badgering or intimidation toward staff, faculty, friends or family members

Verbal, written or implied references to suicide, homicide, assault or self-harm
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Unprovoked anger or hostility
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Physical violence like shoving, grabbing, assaulting or use of a weapon
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Engaging in stalking or harassing behaviors
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Communicating threats or disturbing comments in person or via email, text or phone call