17³Ô¹Ï

It’s essential to be aware of the indicators that a student may be struggling. Here are the types of behavior to watch for:

Academic Indicators

• Pattern of repeated absences with or without communication
• Decline in grades, quality of work, or participation
• Bizarre content in class submissions
• Repeated classroom disruptions

Psychological Indicators

• Self-disclosure of distress (e.g., interpersonal issues, suicidal thoughts, grief)
• Disproportional emotional responses (e.g., excessive tearfulness, panic)
• Unprovoked anger or hostility

Safety Risk Indicators

• Verbal abuse or intimidation
• Implied or direct threats to harm self or others
• Stalking or harassing behavior
• Digital threats via email, text, or social media

Social and Physical Indicators

• Marked change in engagement with peers or campus activities
• Noticeable changes in physical appearance, grooming, or hygiene
• Concerns from peers

Stay Calm

Demonstrate empathy and let the student know you are concerned.

Refer to Resources

Encourage the student to visit the Mental Health and Wellness Center (MHWC), or walk them to Lower Campus Center Room 2120 for support.

Set Boundaries

In the case of disruptive behavior, calmly explain how the behavior is inappropriate, and if necessary, ask the student to leave.

Safety First

If the student’s behavior escalates, call 911 or campus police immediately. Complete a Maxient Report after any significant incident.

Is the student a danger to self or others?

• YES:
  Call 911 and complete a Maxient Report.
  If a medical emergency, contact campus police immediately.
• NOT SURE:
  Contact the Mental Health and Wellness Center or Academic Counseling for advice, or complete a Maxient Report.
• NO:
  If the student is not in immediate danger but could use support, refer them to campus resources, and complete a Maxient Report if needed.

• Mental Health and Wellness Center: (650) 949-7910
  In-person support at Lower Campus Center, Room 2120
  Visit the MHWC website
• Student Affairs: (650) 949-7241
  
• Campus Police (Non-Emergency): (650) 949-7313
  Available 24/7 for non-emergencies and prior incidents
• Disability Resource Center (DRC): (650) 949-7017
  DRC website
• Owl's Nest: Basic Needs Center: 650-949-7618 Owls Nest Website

• Santa Clara County Suicide & Crisis Services: Call 9-8-8
• Crisis Text Line: Text 9-8-8 for confidential support
• Bill Wilson Center Crisis Line: (408) 850-6125
• Next Door Solutions (Domestic Violence Hotline): (408) 279-2962
• YWCA Rape Crisis Center Hotline: (800) 572-2782
• Family Supportive Housing: (408) 296-8885
• 2-1-1 Bay Area: Call 211 or text your zip code to 898211

Show Empathy

Students want to feel heard and understood. A simple acknowledgment of their struggles can make a profound difference. By showing that you care, you can help build trust and foster a sense of belonging, which is crucial for student success.

Support Beyond Academics

Well-being goes beyond intellectual achievements. As members of the 17³Ô¹Ï community, we encourage taking steps to promote balance and mental health, whether through encouraging social connection, sharing campus resources, or just being present when needed.

Be Open About Challenges

Students benefit from seeing their mentors as real, imperfect people who have faced their own struggles. Being open about setbacks and personal challenges can foster resilience in students and normalize the process of overcoming adversity.