University Counseling Center (UCC)

What You Should Know About Symptoms
    of Distressd or Distressing Students

Sometimes it is very clear when a student is having difficulties coping, and at other times psychological distress is masked with less obvious symptoms. Some obvious and not-so-obvious signs of distress are:

PROBLEMS WITH ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

• Poor academic performance and preparation, particularly if such behavior represents a change in previous functioning
• Excessive absences or tardiness, especially if representing a change in functioning
• Chronic indecisiveness or procrastination
• Repeated requests for special considerations
• Increased concern about grades despite satisfactory performance
• Increased dependence - student hangs around you or makes excessive appointments to see you during office hours

UNUSUAL BEHAVIOR

• Listlessness, lack of energy, or falling asleep in class
• Disruptive classroom behavior
• Marked changes in personal hygiene
• Impaired speech or disjointed, confused thoughts
• Aggressive or threatening behavior
• Extreme mood changes or excessive, inappropriate display of emotions
• Hyperactivity, irritability, or heightened anxiety
• Prolonged or extreme emotionality
• Dramatic weight loss or weight gain with no apparent physical illness/reason
• Bizarre or strange behavior indicating a loss of contact with reality
• Use of mood altering chemicals (e.g. alcohol or drugs)

TRAUMATIC CHANGE IN RELATIONSHIPS

• Death of family member or close friend
• Difficulties in marriage or close relationships
• Problems at home with family or roommates

REFERENCES TO SUICIDE OR HOMICIDE

• Overt (or veiled) references to suicide - verbally or in writing
• Statements of helplessness or hopelessness
• Indications of persistent or prolonged unhappiness
• Isolated self from friends and family
• Pessimistic feelings about the future
• Homicidal threats

UCC is accredited by The Joint Commission

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