Student in Distress
In life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. For assistance on where and how to report other concerning student behaviors or situations, please refer to the Reporting Different Concerns page.
Some Signs that a Student May Be in Distress
Students may show distress in different ways. Some signs are easy to notice, while others may be subtle. Because students may be reluctant or unable to ask for help, it is important for the campus community to stay attentive so that proper support can be provided. Behaviors to watch for include:
- Significant drop in academic performance or sudden difficulty after consistent success
- Frequent or unexplained absences, especially if attendance was previously regular
- Repeated requests for special consideration (e.g., deadline extensions), particularly if accompanied by visible distress or discomfort
- Behavior that disrupts the learning environment or challenges community expectations
- Strong or exaggerated emotional reactions that seem out of proportion to the situation
If you notice a student exhibiting these signs, consider submitting a CARE report so the student can receive appropriate support.