Having someone listen is effective in and of itself and can result in the person feeling somewhat better. Responding with accurate information regarding referral to counselling is critical to linking students to the help they need. Regardless of the circumstances or context, any reference to committing suicide should be considered extremely risky and a judgment about the seriousness and possible lethality of the suicidal thought or gesture should not be made without consultation with a mental health professional. Marked Changes in Mood or Behavior Actions which are inconsistent with an individual's normal behavior may indicate that she or he is experiencing psychological distress. Apparent Distortions of Reality Communication difficulties and apparent distortions of reality may be symptomatic of more severe psychological problems which require professional assessment and treatment.
Intervention varies with the severity of the offending behavior.
Traumatic Changes in Personal Relationships Personal problems often result when an individual experiences a traumatic change in a personal relationship. The death of a family member or close friend, difficulties in marriage or family relationships, divorce, changes in family responsibilities and difficulties in other significant relationships can all result in increased stress and psychological difficulties. If a student shares concerns regarding disruptive eating patters such as excessive dieting, uncontrolled binge eating, and induced vomiting after eating, it is important that professional treatment be accessed as soon as possible. Numberous factors are involved in the cause of disordered eating and effective treatment must address psychological, social, as well as biological aspects of this problem. Many students find the demands of their university program to be greater than they anticipated.