Ways to approach the struggling student
Acknowledge their struggle and offer to listen.
You’ve seemed a little down lately. Is there anything you want to talk about?
I noticed you missed class a few times. How are you? Is there anything I can do for you?
You’ve seemed really tired in class lately. How have you been doing?
Ways to respond when a student shares their struggle with you and needs help
Affirm the positive step they took by opening up to you and offer to provide information on support resources on campus.
I appreciate your vulnerability in sharing this with me. I know how hard that can be. There are a lot of support resources on campus. Are you interested in learning about them?
I have noticed that your situation might be getting worse. I’d like to tell you about the resources available on campus.
Ways to refer a student via email
Obtain consent from the student that they would be interested in having a mental health therapist reach out to them via email/phone.
I’m very sorry to hear that you are struggling right now. I am not a therapist, but it sounds like you may benefit from speaking to one. The best thing I can do is refer you to the many resources that are available here on campus. I have included IVC therapist Stacy Lavino on this email. Stacy is one of the amazing mental health professionals at the IVC Health and Wellness Center and she is here to help you. If you would like to schedule an appointment, feel free to email her directly at slavino@ivc.edu or call her at (949) 451-5221.”
Hi Stacy, I would like to virtually introduce you to one of our students (name of student and ID#) who is cc’d on this email. I met with the student today and they are interested in seeking help for their situation. I also informed the student to contact you directly via email or phone to schedule an appointment.”