It's Okay to Ask...

HOW TO BRING IT UP

It’s often a relief to students to know that people at the university notice and care.

• Broach the subject in a caring, supportive way
• Clearly express your concerns in non disparaging non confrontational terms.
• Remind the student of their personal responsibility as a member of the community
• Respect the student’s privacy but do not promise confidentiality

HOW TO TALK ABOUT IT

Whether you or a student broaches the topic, it is important to have privacy and some time without interruption.

• Don’t minimize the problem or solve it too quickly with advice.
• Let the student express emotion (often it has been building/bottled up)
• Ask if the student has found anything to help with the problem.
• Inquire about their support network

HOW TO REFER

• The student situation may be beyond what you can address, but your support is still critical
• Reassure student the decisions to seek/accept help is a wise choice and they are not alone
• Offer to meet to ensure follow through
• Refer to the CARE Team

Bridgewater State University (2021). Crisis Resources.
Retrieved January 15, 2021, from https://www.bridgew.edu/student-life/careteam/crisis-resources.