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