Assessment and Care Team (ACT)
What You Can Do To Help
Responses to Distressed and Disturbed Behaviors
- Observe: Pay close attention to direct communication as well as implied feelings
- Initiate contact: If possible, talk to the student privately, be specific and speak in a non-judgmental tone. Openly acknowledge to the student that you are aware of their distress, that you are concerned and are willing to help them explore their alternatives.
- Clarify your role: A student may see you as a figure of authority and this perception may influence how helpful you can be.
- Listen objectively and carefully: Try to avoid imposing your own point of view, to withhold advice unless it is requested, and to concentrate on the feelings and thoughts of the person you are trying to help, and not on your own.
- Know your limits: Only go as far as your expertise, training, and resources allow
and trust your feelings when you think an individual’s problem is more than you can
handle. If you are unsure how to respond to a specific student, consult with the Office
of Counseling Services or a member of
ACT.
Responses to Dysregulation Behaviors
- In the event of an emergency, stay calm. If possible, talk to the student in a private place, do not leave the student alone, especially if the student presents a threat to self or others.
Examples of emergency situations include:
- A suicide attempt, gesture, threat or stated intention
- A homicidal attempt, gesture, threat or stated intention
- Behavior posing threat to others
- Loss of contact with reality
- If there is an immediate risk of harm to self or others, please call 850-599-3256
- If at any time you do not feel safe, please contact the FAMU Department of Campus Safety & Security immediately!
- If no immediate risk of harm to self or others is present, please fill out the online ACT Incident Reporting form.