How To Talk To Students About Your Concerns
As a faculty or staff member, expressing concerns regarding the behavior of a student can be awkward and uncomfortable for both parties involved. Consider the following suggestions and conversation starters that may be helpful.
Privacy - Talk in private when you and the student have time and are not preoccupied.
Honesty - Be frank about your concerns, sharing what you observe without judging.
Limits - Be clear about the limits of your ability to help. It is not your role or responsibility to counsel students, but you can help them get the support they need. Do not make promises of confidentiality or "keeping a secret." Only express your commitment of support.
Timing - If a student is receptive to seeing a counselor, provide them with the phone number, offer them access to your phone so they can make an appointment, or accompany them to Counseling Services.