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Early intervention can save a life.

The following behaviors can all be important signs of a student in distress. As a member of the University of Memphis community, you may notice a student exhibiting one or more of the academic, physical, or emotional signs and decide that something may be wrong. You do not need to wait for tangible "proof" that a problem exists. A simple check-in with the student may also help you get a better sense of his/her situation and help you better articulate your concern for the student.

Ongoing disruptive behavior in the classroom

  • asking inappropriate or irrelevant questions
  • failure to comply with directives from faculty
  • inappropriate interaction with other students
  • direct insubordination/aggressive behavior towards others
  • extremely erratic behavior
  • written or artistic expression of extreme violence, morbidity, despair, self-harm

Physical Indicators

  • deterioration of physical appearance or personal hygiene
  • noticeable signs of physical abuse (cuts, bruises, burns, etc.)
  • disoriented or confused behavior
  • evidence of drug/alcohol abuse

Behavioral Indicators

  • direct statement(s) describing violence toward self or others
  • unexplained hostility toward others
  • expressions of self-loathing, hopelessness, social isolation
  • excessively demanding behavior