MSU CARE Program

Resources for Faculty, Staff and Parents

Depressed Suicidal Overanxious Grieving Self-Injury
Disruptive Aggressive Threatening Eating Problems Bipolar
Irrational Under the Influence Stalking Relationship Violence Sexual Assault
*All linked information from the Reaching Out Handbook: Resources for Responding to Students in Distress used with permission from Boise State University's Health Services.
MSU CARES ALERT

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THE SUICIDAL STUDENT

 

It is important to regard all suicidal comments as serious.  Watching for some of the following behaviors will offer clues on the student's frame of mind.  If a student exhibits any of the symptoms below, refer her or him to Counseling and Psychological Services immediately for assessment.

  • withdrawal from friends and family
  • expression of extreme hopelessness or guilt
  • sudden mood or behavior changes
  • giving possessions away
  • comments that life isn't worth the trouble
  • recurrent thoughts or statements about suicide

 

HELPFUL ACTIONS

UNHELPFUL ACTIONS
  •  Be confident, caring, and prepared to provide information about available student resources.
  •  Becoming involved with the student beyond your levels of expertise or comfort.
  •  If you have an intuition that something is wrong with the student, call Counseling and Psychological Services for consultation with professional staff.
  •  Ignoring comments such as, "won't be a problem much longer," or "Nothing matters; it's no use."
  •  If you believe there is imminent danger, and the student is willing, bring him or her to Counseling and Psychological Services.  Call first if possible, 406-994-4531.
  •  Being too busy to intervene.
  •  If it is after hours and the student is cooperative, call a friend, family member, or 911.
  •  If it is after hours or the student is uncooperative, call 911.


If there is immediate risk to life or property, call 911.