Warning Signs of Student Distress
Common Causes of Emotional Distress
- Relationship Breakup
- Family Conflict
- Loss of a Loved One
- Divorce of Parents
- Feeling Lonely
- Academic Pressure or Failure
- Serious Illness or Injury
- Difficulty Adjusting to University
- Not Fitting in with Peers
- Unplanned Pregnancy
- Religious Conflicts
- Sexual Abuse or Assault
- Physical Abuse of Assault
- Identity Confusion
- Depression
- Drug/Alcohol Use
- Disordered Eating
- Career Indecision
- Loss of Goal or Dream
- Occupational Setback
Common Warning Signs of Student Distress
Academic Problems
- Career and Course Indecision
- Excessive Procrastination
- Uncharacteristically Poor
- Preparation Performance
- Repeated Requests for Extensions or Special Considerations
- Excessive Absence/Tardiness
- Avoiding or Dominating Discussions
- References to Suicide or Homicide in Verbal Statements or Writing
- Disruptive Classroom Behavior
Interpersonal Problems
- Asking Instructor for Help with Personal Problems
- Dependency on Advisor
- Hanging around Office
- Disruptive Behavior
- Inability to Get Along with Others
- Complaints from Other Student
- Student Isolating Self from Others
Behavioral Problems
- Change in Personal Hygiene
- Dramatic Weight Gain or Loss
- Frequently Falling Asleep in Class
- Irritability
- Unruly Behavior
- Impaired Speech
- Disjointed Thoughts
- Tearfulness
- Intense Emotion
- Inappropriate Responses
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Physically Harming Self