Almost every student experiences significant personal distress at some time during college. Often, a student quickly emerges from the crisis using their own initiative and resources. Some, however, will experience distress that is serious enough or of sufficient duration that they are unable to resolve the concerns using their usual resources.
Students often exhibit a variety of behavioral indicators which can alert the observer to the fact that they are experiencing personal distress. Particular concern must be shown for the student who demonstrates a number of the following behavioral indicators over an extended period of time.
Reference to Suicide or Intention to Harm Another Person
It is cause for concern and reaction whenever a student expresses a desire or a plan to harm themselves, or to die, or to harm another person. Dismissing this as a bid for attention or avoiding the topic because it is unpleasant would be a mistake. A referral to the Counseling Center should be suggested to the student. If your concerns about the student continue, please consult with a staff member of the Counseling Center.
In the case of an actual attempt to harm self or another or any other psychological emergency call:
Public Safety (508) 793-2222
Academic Problems
Many students encounter problems adjusting to the demands of college level academics. The most frequent difficulties include poor study skills and habits, debilitating test anxiety, lack of motivation and a sudden decline in academic performance.
Traumatic Changes in Personal Relationships
College students often have difficulty adjusting to changes in their relationships. Common among these changes are seperation 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 contribute to a student experiencing profound emotional reactions.
Changes in Mood or Behavior
During periods of psychological distress, students may often withdraw from social interactions, commit antisocial acts, or exhibit extreme mood changes: vacillation among states of sadness, depression, anger, or euphoria.
Anxiety and Depression
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 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.
Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse
Chronic or excessive use of drugs, including alcohol, can be an indicator of psychological disturbance.