Behavioral Warning Signs and Mental Health Support Resources

51ºÚÁÏ

Behavioral Warning Signs

51ºÚÁÏ students, faculty and staff may observe or interact with others on campus who are distressed, physically, mentally, and/or emotionally.  You may have a gut feeling that something is not right with the person.

Signs of distress may include:

  • Drop in class attendance or quality of work
  • Consistently has difficulty paying attention or keeping focus
  • Decline in personal hygiene and dress
  • Consistent depressed mood
  • Socially withdrawing behavior
  • Crying without apparent reason
  • Easily frustrated or irritated--quick to anger
  • Appears to be “on edge” all of the time--often anxious
  • Identifiable signs of intoxication during class or interactions
  • Bizarre behavior such as talking to self or repetitive actions/rituals
  • Use of suicidal language such as (“I’d be better off dead” or “I’m worthless”) (can be verbal, written, social media)
  • Suicidal gestures such as giving away valued items
  • Preoccupation with death or dying as apparent in writings or drawings
  • Lack of insight into consequences or precursors to behavior
  • Use of threatening and/or intimidating language when communicating
  • Exhibits behaviors or emotions that are inappropriate to the situation
  • Displays extreme suspiciousness or irrational fears of persecution

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: 
If a student expresses a direct threat to themselves or others, or acts in a bizarre, highly irrational or disruptive way, call 911 or the Campus Police at (815) 836-5911 immediately.

For more information on signs of a distressed person on 51ºÚÁÏ campus, report a person of concern and the Assessment and Care Team (ACT): /emergencyplanning/pdf/ACT-Brochure-2023.pdf.

To report a Person of Concern: /emergencyplanning/personsinterest.htm. 51ºÚÁÏ Assessment and Care Team (ACT) will be notified and provide appropriate intervention.

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