- Share your interest and concern openly, directly and with care.
- Set clear limits.
- Maintain a student’s privacy.
- Do not promise confidentiality. Rather, inform a student that you will use discretion if seeking outside assistance.
- Help a student tell his or her story. Offer the opportunity to listen to whatever is on the student’s mind.
- Demonstrate an understanding of what the student discloses.
- Clarify vague, confusing, or disturbing student disclosures. Ask, “What do you mean by…?”
- Inquire how the student is attempting to respond to the problem.
- Develop response options together.
- Consider with the student the consequences of “doing more of the same.”
- Consult with colleagues, Student Affairs staff, or others if you feel you need additional perspectives, before or after approaching the student.
- Suggest a referral to the Wellness Center or other community resource.
- Follow up. Offer and be open to further contact.
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