SUBJECT:

Faculty and Staff Supporting Students

Research suggests that if we equip our faculty and staff with the education and resources to recognize and respond appropriately to students in distress, we can prevent many concerns from escalating into crises and we may even be able to help save lives. You are the front line for engaging with our students. We want to provide tools to assist you in regard to this important issue. There are several important resources available to you.

To begin, the University of California, Office of the President has prepared a new handbook, Promoting Student Mental Health: A Guide for UC Faculty and Staff. It contains in-depth information about mental health and the role of faculty and staff in supporting students of concern. http://blink.ucsd.edu/instructors/advising/concern/index.html

Going beyond a handbook, at UC San Diego, the TRITON CONCERN LINE provides a streamlined way for staff and faculty to seek consultation and assistance regarding students of concern. A student of concern is someone whose academic progress or overall functioning in the university environment is adversely affected due to a number of indicators that are impacting their well-being and/or the well-being of others. Call (858) 246-1111 to report your concerns. The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Calls will be referred to the appropriate Dean of Student Affairs the next business day. This is not to be used as an emergency contact number.

For immediate concerns about student behavior, or concerns for the safety of yourself and/or others, call the UC San Diego Police Department at (858) 534-HELP (4357). UC San Diego Police Dispatch is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

An additional resource for undergraduate, graduate and professional school students is Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), which provides a vast array of services, including brief focused psychotherapies and psychiatric services. For more information, please call (858) 534-3755 or visit http://caps.ucsd.edu

To learn more about the new Triton Concern Line and training on How to Support Students of Concern, contact Dr. Monique Crandal at (858) 822-2614 or visit http://blink.ucsd.ed u/go/students-of-concern

Thank you, in advance, for all you do to help create a caring and considerate campus environment for UC San Diego students.

Peter F. Cowhey Interim Executive Vice Chancellor Juan C. González Vice Chancellor-Student Affairs