Keeping Students Safe
SEE, SAY, DO Something
If you SEE someone in emotional distress or acting in a manner that is inconsistent from your previous experience, trust your instincts to DO SOMETHING. You can SAY SOMETHING if a student leaves you feeling worried, alarmed or threatened.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) permits communication about a student of concern in connection with health and safety issues to an appropriate campus resource. You can help by notifying the Student Advocacy and Support (402.472.0878) so that an appropriate intervention can be made.
If you are advising or meeting a student remotely, view our tips to help you prepare for an unforeseen crisis.
WHEN IN DOUBT, CALL 911 OR CONSULT WITH COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES (402.472.7450)
| IF THE STUDENT | TAKE ACTION |
|---|---|
| University Police Department Campus Phone: 2-2222 Cell Phone: 402.472.2222 |
| University Police Department 402.472.2222 |
| Counseling and Psychological Services 402.472.7450 follow prompts for after-hours assistance |
| Center for Advocacy, Response & Education (CARE) 402.472.3553 Voices of Hope 24-Hour Crisis Line 402.475.7273 |
| Student Advocacy and Support 402.472.0878 Submit student referrals online Referrals are reviewed by the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT). |
| Services for Students with Disabilities 402.472.3787 |
| University Health Center Medical Clinic 402.472.5000 |
| Institutional Equity and Compliance 402.472.3417 |
Best Practices for Working with Distressed Students
- Speak with the individual privately
- Let them know you are concerned and willing to help
- Listen carefully and compassionately; then, explore options
- Keep healthy boundaries and limits
- Identify resources and make referrals
Possible Signs of Distress
- Marked change in performance or behavior
- Excessive absence or tardiness
- Decreased motivation/concentration
- Increased irritability or anxiety
- Exaggerated emotional response that is inappropriate to the situation
- Increased isolation or sadness
- Hyperactivity or very rapid speech
- Marked change in personal hygiene, including weight loss or gain
- Excessive confusion
- Bizarre or erratic behavior
- References to suicide (e.g., feelings of helplessness or hopelessness)
- References to homicide or assault
If a Student Tells You of a Sexual Assault
- Stay calm and listen. Create an environment where the student can talk and share.
- Offer your support. Let the student know that they are not to blame for what happened.
- Let them know that you are available to support them.
- Empower the student by telling them they have a right to be safe and free from violence.
- Be honest and up front about reporting the abuse or getting support.
- Help them find resources to talk with individuals who are trained on these topics:
Counseling and Psychological Services — 402.472.7450
Center for Advocacy, Response & Education (CARE) — 402.472.3553 - Employees are expected to report the incident right away to Institutional Equity and Compliance (402.472.3417).
Working with Disruptive Individuals
What is disruptive behavior?
Behavior that interferes with the campus's learning environment is considered disruptive.
It is important to recognize that the period of peak anger usually lasts for a brief period of time.
What are some examples…?
- Persistent and unreasonable demands for time and attention
- Aggressive or defiant behavior
- Words or actions that intimidate or harass
- Words or actions that cause another to fear for their personal safety
How can I respond to a disruptive person?
- SAFETY FIRST
- Do not ignore disruptive behavior
- Remember that anger usually passes quickly
- Calmly let the student know that the behavior is inappropriate
- Disruptive behavior should be documented
DO:
- Use silence to allow the student to tell you what is upsetting them
- Acknowledge the feelings of the individual
- Be firm, steady, consistent, and honest
- Focus on what you can do to help the student problem solve
- Make personal referrals to appropriate resources
- Communicate your concerns with Student Advocacy and Support (402.472.0878 or studentadvocacy@unl.edu)
In a crisis situation, or if you feel threatened or endangered, call 2-2222 or 911.
About Our Services
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is a multidisciplinary team of psychologists and counselors who work collaboratively with students and psychiatric providers. We help students explore their feelings and thoughts and learn helpful ways to improve their mental, psychological and emotional well-being when issues arise. Services include:
- Crisis services
- Individual and couples counseling
- Support and therapy groups
- Screenings and assessments
- Alcohol/drug screening and counseling
- Eating disorders treatment
- Workshops and presentations
Although we do not provide medication evaluation and referral services, we can collaborate with specialty providers for medication management.