Create opportunities for connections in your classroom and work to engage the withdrawn or socially isolated student.
Phrase feedback positively whenever possible.
During critiques, emphasize the purpose, process and benefit of them. Seek to normalize the experience by using examples, such as an invited upperclassman’s work. Understand that some students lack basic life skills and could be deficient in many areas.
Identify career counseling as a tool for personal growth. Contact Counseling & Support Services at (423) 478-6217 for more information.
Encourage student involvement in events, campus clubs, and/or community activities. Contact Student Life Coordinator at (423) 614-8744
Inform students with disabilities about the self-identification process to utilize accommodations. Contact Disability Support Services at (423) 473-2427.
Engage with students at activities and on campus. Help them feel valued.
Consult with the BIT as needed. They are available for feedback, assistance, and support.
Be cognizant about the limits of your ability to help. You can help an individual access support by informing him/her of the college’s Counseling & Support Services department. Counselors in this office can provide assistance and make referrals to appropriate professionals in the community. If a person is receptive to seeing a counselor, provide him/her with the Counseling & Support Services phone number (423) 478-6217. Below are statements that can begin a conversation.
“Sounds like you are really struggling with _________. Many people find it helpful to have a confidential discussion with someone who is objective and outside of the situation.”
“I want to help you get the help you need and deserve.”
“Meeting with a counselor is confidential and will not go on your academic record.”
“These services are free; so take advantage of them.”
Suicide Warning Signs
There is no typical suicidal person. No age group, ethnicity, or background is immune. Fortunately, many troubled individuals display behaviors deliberately or inadvertently signal their suicidal intent. Recognizing the warning signs and learning what to do next may help save a life.
The following behavioral patterns may indicate possible risk for suicide and should be watched closely. If they appear numerous or severe, seek professional help at once. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) provides access to trained telephone counselors, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or the Crisis Text Line by texting TN to 741 741.
Feelings, Thoughts, and Behaviors
Nearly everyone at some time in his or her life thinks about suicide. Most everyone decides to live because they come to realize that the crisis is temporary, but death in not. On the other hand, people in the midst of a crisis often perceive their dilemma as inescapable and feel an utter loss of control. Frequently, they:
What Do You Do?
Who Can You Talk To?
Cleveland State Community College is a Tennessee Board of Regents institution