Recognizing Signs Of Student Distress
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.
Change:
- in sleep patterns (insomnia or extreme sleepiness, nightmares)
- in appetite (overeating or loss of appetite)
- in energy level (hyperactivity or exhaustion)
- in mood (more irritable, more excitable, or more depressed)
- in performance or activity (compulsive, erratic, or diminished)
- in academic performance or behavior:
- Poor performance and preparation
- Excessive absences or tardiness
- Repeated requests for special consideration, especially when this represents a change from previous functioning
- Unusual or changed pattern of interaction
- Avoiding participation
- Dominating discussions
- Excessively anxious when called upon
- Excessive test, or class assignment related anxiety
- Disruptive behavior
- Problems with roommates or family
Physical Complaints Of Unknown Origin:
- headaches, skeletal pain, gastrointestinal disturbances, cardiovascular problems, frequent illness or accidental injury, dizziness, or extreme weakness
Atypical Appearance:
- hyperactivity or very rapid speech
- swollen or red eyes
- change in personal hygiene or dress
- excessively thin or overweight
Withdrawal:
- from activities and social interaction
- from emotional involvement with others
- from academic work and classroom participation
- from family and friends
Emotional Overreaction:
- spells of crying
- hypersensitivity
- outbursts of anger inappropriate to the situation
- violent behavior
Carelessness:
- reckless driving
- excessive risk taking
- unsafe and / or inappropriate sexual behavior
- general impulsivity
Substance Abuse:
- 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:
- 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
Distraction:
- inability to concentrate or focus
- persistent memory lapses
- restlessness
- preoccupation
Depression:
- feelings of pessimism, helplessness, or hopelessness
- feeling out of control
- anxiety
- self preoccupation
- negative self evaluation
- references to suicide
Poor Contact With Reality:
- 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:
- 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:
- panic feelings
- physical shakiness
- obsessive and ruminating thoughts
- rapid heart rate
- shortness of breath
- persistent worrying