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The following signs of student distress when immediately present, or presented over a period of time, suggest that the problems with which a student is dealing with are more than “typical”, and may indicate the need for a referral. |
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Key LinkReferral Guide For Faculty & Staff |
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Physical Complaints Of Unknown Origin:
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- headaches, skeletal pain, gastrointestinal disturbances, cardiovascular problems, frequent illness or accidental injury, dizziness, or extreme weakness
Atypical Appearance:
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- hyperactivity or very rapid speech
- swollen or red eyes
- change in personal hygiene or dress
- excessively thin or overweight
Withdrawal:
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- from activities and social interaction
- from emotional involvement with others
- from academic work and classroom participation
- from family and friends
Emotional Overreaction:
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- spells of crying
- hypersensitivity
- outbursts of anger inappropriate to the situation
- violent behavior
Carelessness:
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- reckless driving
- excessive risk taking
- unsafe and / or inappropriate sexual behavior
- general impulsivity
Substance Abuse:
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- overuse or regular use of illicit drugs, alcohol, nicotine, and / or medication (without medical monitoring)
- exudes smell of alcohol, marijuana, or nicotine from person
- alcohol / drug use in connection with the following:
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- driving a car
- engaging in unsafe or unwanted sexual behavior
- interfering with academic, work or social responsibilities
- family, friendship, or relationship conflicts
- displays of reckless or aggressive behaviors
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Distraction:
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- inability to concentrate or focus
- persistent memory lapses
- restlessness
- preoccupation
Depression:
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- feelings of pessimism, helplessness, or hopelessness
- feeling out of control
- anxiety
- self preoccupation
- negative self evaluation
- references to suicide
Poor Contact With Reality:
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- irrational conversation
- obsessional ruminations or worrying
- exaggerated suspiciousness or fear
- apparent distortions of reality (auditory or visual hallucinations, inability to distinguish fantasy from reality), disorientation
Inappropriate Behavior:
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- behavior inappropriate to the setting or situation
- dangerous or threatening (to self or to others) behaviors
- bizarre or strange behaviors
- anti-social and / or illegal acts (stealing, forcible sex)
Anxiety:
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- panic feelings
- physical shakiness
- obsessive and ruminating thoughts
- rapid heart rate
- shortness of breath
- persistent worrying