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Recognizing Students in Distress |
Students in distress are likely to show some signs. Following are several common symptoms you may see in these students:
- Changes in mood, appearance, or behavior
Some students do not feel comfortable telling someone that there is a problem, but their appearance and behavior can be indicators of a problem. Poor hygiene or change in appearance and dress may be signs of a problem. Declines in academic performance, poor attendance, an uncharacteristic need for additional attention or repeated requests for extensions are examples of behavioral changes you might observe. Outbursts of anger, crying, extreme levels of activity or conversations that do not make sense could indicate psychological difficulties. Threats to classmates and angry, harassing behaviors may require intervention on several levels. These behaviors should not be tolerated and action needs to be taken to stop them. In addition, underlying psychological problems may need to be addressed as well.
- Anxiety
Anxiety and depression are two of the most common problems among students. Anxiety is characterized by a sense of fear sometimes accompanied by unpleasant physical symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, trembling, headaches, and sweating.
- Depression
Depression is characterized by feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. The person can also suffer from fatigue, lack of motivation, disruption of normal sleeping and eating patterns, and a sense of unhappiness. Suicidal thoughts or behavior may also be present.
- Psychosomatic Symptoms
Nausea and other forms of gastrointestinal distress, difficulties with eating or sleeping, or physical pains with no apparent organic basis may be related to underlying emotional problems. It is important to remember that psychosomatic symptoms are real and are not merely feigned for the purpose of avoiding responsibilities or gaining attention.
- Changes in Personal Relationships
College students often have difficulty adjusting to changes in their relationships. Common among these changes are separation or divorce of parents, the death of a relative or friend, roommate problems, or the breakup of a romantic relationship. Dealing with these changes often contributes to a student experiencing profound emotional reactions.
- Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Coming to class or a meeting while intoxicated or high is a sign of drug or alcohol abuse. Individuals often use drugs and alcohol to cope with life's stresses and psychological difficulties that feel overwhelming to them. Unfortunately, the substance abuse frequently becomes a problem in itself and causes further decline in academic and personal functioning. If you see signs of intoxication, do not underestimate their significance. Be aware that abuse of and addiction to alcohol, marijuana, heroin, crack/cocaine, club drugs such as ecstasy and special K, along with other hallucinogens, are sometimes problems in the student population.
- Academic Difficulties
Many students encounter stress while adjusting to the demands of college academics. The most common problems include poor study skills, test anxiety, lack of motivation and poor academic performance.
- Learning problems
Some students find the demands of college-level work to be harder than they anticipated. While it is expected that students will go through an adjustment period, those who demonstrate a consistent discrepancy between their ability and performance may need further assistance. At times an undiagnosed learning disability may be affecting the student's academic performance. The Office of Disability Support Services (DSS) is available to help with these problems. DSS is located in UC310 can be reached at 516.877.3145.
- Reference to Suicide or Intention to Harm Another Person
It is always cause for concern and reaction whenever a student expresses a desire or a plan to harm himself or herself, to die, or to harm another person. Dismissing this as attention seeking behavior or avoiding the topic because it is unpleasant would be a mistake. A referral to the SCC should be made, gently but firmly. If you remain concerned about the student or the student refuses help, please consult with a staff member in the Student Counseling Center. In the case of an actual attempt to harm oneself or another while on the Garden City campus, call Public Safety (dial "5" from any Garden City campus phone or 516.877.3511), Health Services (516.877.6000), or the SCC (516.877.3646). If you are at the Hauppauge Center, call security at 631.300.4367. At the Hudson Valley Center, call the main office at 845.471.3348 or 911. At the Manhattan Center, contact the public safety desk at 212.965.8340 ext 113 or call 911.
- Leaving School
When a student thinks about leaving school or transferring to another college, a large number of issues may be impacting the student's decision to leave. A referral to counseling may help the student sort out the issues, enabling him or her to make the best decision.
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Contact
For additional information, please contact:
Student Counseling Center
University Center Room 310
Adelphi University
P.O. BOX 701
Garden City, NY 11530-0701
p - 516.877.3646
f - 516.877.3139
This page last modified on January 10, 2008.
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