Referring Student or Resident

Are you concerned about a student or resident?

There are various behaviors that may indicate distress. Some signs to watch for include:

Avoidance of participation in class or clinical settings
Dominating discussions
Excessive anxiety when called upon
Inappropriate emotional responses
Sudden changes in behavior (e.g., attendance, grades, focus)
Depressed or lethargic mood
Hyperactivity or rapid speech
Unexplained crying, irritability, or anger
Changes in personal hygiene or dress
Dramatic weight changes
Strange or bizarre behavior indicating detachment from reality
Expressions of hopelessness or helplessness
References to suicidal or homicidal thoughts

How Can You Help?

It’s important to follow a mindful approach when interacting with someone in distress. Here are some steps you can take:

Approach Respectfully: Ask to speak in private at a time that works for both of you.
Give Undivided Attention: Listen carefully to their thoughts and feelings in a sensitive and non-threatening way.
Express Concern: Use non-judgmental language (e.g., “I’ve noticed you’ve been absent from class and I’m concerned.”).
Acknowledge Their Feelings: Reflect what you’ve heard by including both their content and emotions (e.g., “It sounds like you’re finding the schedule overwhelming.”).
Address Inappropriate Behavior: Do not ignore strange or inappropriate behavior. Comment on what you’ve observed.
Maintain Confidentiality: Avoid discussing your concerns with other students.

When to Refer to the Student Support Center (SSC)

Consider a referral to the SSC if:

The problem is more serious than you feel comfortable handling.
You’ve offered all the help you can, but more assistance is needed.
Your feelings may affect your ability to remain objective.
The student has acknowledged an issue but prefers not to talk to you.
The student is asking for help that you cannot provide.

How to Refer a Student or Resident to the SSC

Speak Directly: Approach the student or resident with care and express your concerns based on their behavior.
Encourage Self-Referral: Students and residents should make their own appointments whenever possible. You can assist by walking them over to the Student Support Center during office hours (9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday).
Escalate if Necessary: If the individual refuses the referral, forward an email with your concerns to the Assistant Vice President for Student Services (for students) or the Associate Dean for GME (for residents).

Confidentiality of Services

Please remember that all SSC contacts with students and residents are confidential. Information about SSC client contacts cannot be released except under specific circumstances. The TTUHSC El Paso Student Support Center strictly adheres to this policy, which is in accordance with Texas state law.

If you are wondering about the student's follow-through with the referral, we recommend that you contact the student directly. You are welcome to share information regarding a student with SCC staff. However, SCC staff must abide by the above guidelines and will not be able to respond without the student's consent.

The Student Support Center, in some cases, may be able to provide letters regarding disability-related academic or accessibility accommodations. Students should direct all accommodation requests to the Academic Success and Accessibility Office (ASAO) for approval and implementation.