Procedure for students in distress

Faculty and staff may encounter students in varying degrees of distress over the course of the semester. Identifying levels of distress and correctly referring students is important to ensure students receive appropriate levels of support. You can explore the Counseling Center’s tips for recognizing and responding to students in crisis on their Concerned About a Student webpage.

You can also learn more about how to support students who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge by attending one of the Mental Health First Aid Courses offered by the Counseling Center (registration opportunities are sent via email a few times per year).

For students experiencing any medical emergency, or emotional dysregulation, call campus police at (219) 989-2222. Police are trained in de-escalation and can assist in evaluation for hospital transport if needed.

Symptoms of dysregulation include:

• Disruptive: shouting, threats, hitting or throwing objects.
• Uncontrolled crying, hyperventilation, panic.
• Specific threat of suicide or violence to others.
• Paranoia, hallucinations, irrational or disjointed communication.

Campus police have 24-hour access to emergency psychological consultation via the PNW Counseling Center.

For further information, please contact the following offices:

Office of the Dean of Students, (219) 989-4141 or (219) 785-5230. You may also submit a student of concern form online.

The PNW Counseling Center, 219-989-2366. The PNW Counseling Center can assist students who are experiencing a mental health challenge (Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). For more information about how students can make an appointment, and understanding crisis, visit the Counseling Center webpage.