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Academic, Behavioral, and Physical indicators

A response to observation of any of the following could be anything from a private conversation with the student to a call to the police, depending on the nature of the behavior. Some of these behaviors could be viewed as warning signs which need attention.

Some of these behavioral warning signs might just indicate that the individual is going through a rough time, while others are clear indicators that something more serious may be going on.  It is important to collect, share, and analyze behaviors to look for trends, worsening of behaviors, and warning signs thoroughly and proactively.

ACADEMIC

INDICATORS

  • Repeated absences from class, missing scheduled appointments
  • Missed assignments, exams, etc.
  • Deterioration in quality or quantity of work
  • Extreme disorganization or erratic performance
  • Written or artistic expression of unusual violence, morbidity, social isolation, despair or confusion; essays or papers that focus on suicide or death
  • Continual seeking of special provisions (extensions on papers or make-up exams)
  • Patterns of perfectionism
  • Overblown or disproportionate response to grades or other evaluations
BEHAVIORAL & EMOTIONAL

INDICATORS

  • Direct statements indicating distress, family problems or loss
  • Angry or hostile outbursts, yelling, or aggressive comments
  • A person bringing a weapon to campus
  • More withdrawn or more animated than usual
  • Expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness, crying or tearfulness
  • Expressions of severe anxiety or irritability
  • Online posting of a threat or threatening email
  • Discussion of violence as a way to solve a problem
  • Someone talks about feeling “wronged” and wants to get revenge
  • Excessively demanding or dependent behavior
  • Lack of response to outreach from college staff
  • Shakiness, tremors, fidgeting, or pacing
PHYSICAL

INDICATORS

  • Deterioration in physical appearance or personal hygiene
  • Excessive fatigue, exhaustion, falling asleep in class repeatedly
  • Visible changes in weight, statements about change in appetite or sleep
  • Noticeable cuts, bruises or burns
  • Frequent or chronic illness
  • Disorganized speech, rapid or slurred speech, confusion
  • Unusual inability to make eye contact
  • Coming to class bleary-eyed or appearing under the influence of banned substances (e.g. narcotics, alcohol, other legally controlled substances)