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 Ƶ therapist Stacy Lavino on this email. Stacy is one of the amazing mental health professionals at the Ƶ 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.”