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It is important to regard all suicidal comments as serious.  Watching for some of the following behaviors will offer clues on the student's frame of mind.  If a student exhibits any of the symptoms below, refer her or him to Student Health Services immediately for assessment.

  • withdrawal from friends and family
  • expression of extreme hopelessness or guilt
  • sudden mood or behavior changes
  • giving possessions away
  • comments that life isn't worth the trouble
  • recurrent thoughts or statements about suicide

Helpful Actions

  • Be confident, caring, and prepared to provide information about available student resources.
  • If you have an intuition that something is wrong with the student, call Counseling and Psychological Services for consultation with professional staff.
  •  If you believe there is imminent danger, and the student is willing, bring him or her to Student Health Services.  Call first if possible, 406-657-2153.
  •  If it is after hours and the student is cooperative, call a friend, family member, or University Police at 406-657-2222.
  • If it is after hours or the student is uncooperative, call University Police at 406-657-2222 or 911.

Unhelpful Actions

  • Becoming involved with the student beyond your levels of expertise or comfort.
  • Ignoring comments such as, "won't be a problem much longer," or "Nothing matters; it's no use."
  • Being too busy to intervene.

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