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How do I respond to a distressed student?
It can be difficult sometimes to know how to respond to a student with an emotional issue or mental health condition. In order to support these students who are at risk of failure, strategies need to be identified which can help them manage their study successfully.
The GRIP framework is a useful guide to how you can respond as a staff member.
- Gather
- Respond
- Involve
- Promote
Reproduced with permission from Dr Janette Ryan (Faculty of Education, Monash University)
Burke,J. & Ryan J. (2004) Teaching and Assessment Practices for Students with Disabilities: Staff Development Training Program and Information Guide
Adapted from: Hunter Institute of Mental Health.(2001). Response Ability: Supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia.
Respond
Talk to the troubled person. Be compassionate and listen with empathy to their story - avoid getting too involved, being judgemental or suggesting solutions.
Respect confidentiality, but be honest about your responsibilities - you have to tell others if there is a risk of violence, abuse or self-harm.
Involve
Involve others, linking the student with counselling.
Maintain a connection with the student and follow up a little later to see if things have improved.
Promote
Promote a healthy environment, supporting and enforcing relevant policies and promoting positive values and life skills.
Be a model for your students; promote tolerance, don't allow putdowns, and encourage people to challenge their negative self talk.
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Gather
Gather and analyse information to decide whether the student might need additional support such as counselling.
Look out for warning sighns and risk factors, such as changes in academic performance, behaviour or relations with others.