Introduction

In recent years Counseling Services and the Office of Student Life have received an increasing number of calls from faculty members, teaching assistants, medical professionals, and staff regarding students’ emotional states, learning difficulties, and safety, as well as academic and career indecision. These professionals have significant contact with students and often are the first to notice a student experiencing difficulties or distress.

Attending to a student’s concerns and providing information about campus resources can be an important intervention, which may prevent escalation of the problem or situation. A faculty member, T.A., medical professional, or staff member who first becomes aware of an emergency situation involving a student may consider notifying the chair of the department; the dean of the appropriate college; the Office of Student Life, assistant to the dean (893-4521); and, when appropriate, Counseling Services (893-4411), Career Services (893-4411), and/or Student Health, Urgent Care (893-4173) for consultation.

In addition, UCSB employs a social worker (893-3380) who is available to assist students and their families. In an emergency situation, Campus Police should be called (9-911 from campus phones). In a difficult situation, an individual staff or faculty member should never feel obligated to proceed beyond his/her comfort level or handle a situation alone.

This Web site provides information that may help in recognizing and responding to students in distress and making appropriate referrals.

For comments, questions, or alternative format, please contact the Office of Student Life at 893-4569.