Referring
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Referring to Resources
When talking to a student in distress, you will want to look for a natural point in the conversation to mention resources.
To introduce the idea of a referral, you could say:
- “We need extra help. I want to connect you with someone who can help you keep safe.”
- If they are reluctant, you could say, “I have to do this. I’m not going to take a chance on losing you.”
- Point out that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage.
If it is not an emergency situation, you can refer the student to supports on campus. There may be a list with services and contact information for these services at your institution. If not, Handout 1 is a fillable PDF that has space to add in contact information for key supports. Below are some of the services available at most campuses:
- Counselling services help students manage personal, academic, and life concerns. Professional counsellors provide individual and group counselling sessions for students.
- Campus security helps coordinate responses to student emergencies and crises. If you call 911, call security first, as security can help first responders locate you.
- Student services offers many supports for students.
- Indigenous student centre offers support, mentorship programs, and a gathering place. Many campuses have an Elder who can talk to students.
- Health or medical services offer health and mental health care for students.
- International student services help students with personal or academic issues, study and work permits, and visa applications.
- Accessible learning services provide services and coordinate academic accommodations for students.
- Pride centre provides support to LGBTQ2S+ students.
- Sexualized violence resource centre offers support for victims of sexualized violence.
If the student is not on campus, you can connect with these services and ask that they connect with the student by telephone or video.
Support for Marginalized Groups
When a person has a sense of belonging and connectedness with family, friends, culture, and community, they are less likely to take their own life. Unfortunately, not all students have this sense of belonging, and some students, such as Indigenous students, international students, students with disabilities, and LGBTQ2S+ students, are at a higher risk of isolation and may not have the support they need.
- For Indigenous students, you could reach out to the Indigenous student centre before talking to a student; a staff member or Elder can make themselves available to talk to a student immediately after you talk to the student or they may want to attend the meeting.
- For international students, international student services on your campus can be a great resource.
- For students with disabilities, you could connect them with student services or the accessible learning centre.
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