Traumatic Changes in Personal Relationships. Personal problems often result when an individual experiences traumatic changes in personal relationships. 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. Drug and Alcohol Abuse. Excessive drinking, drug abuse, or drug dependence are almost always indicative of psychological problems.
Many students find the demands of college-level academic work to be greater than anticipated.
While it is expected that all students will go through some adjustment periods, those who demonstrate a consistent discrepancy between their performance and their potential may be in need of assistance. When to Refer Aside from the signs or symptoms that may suggest the need for counseling, there are other guidelines which may help you to define the limits of your involvement with a particular student's problem. Get to know the referral sources. Learn the names and specializations of staff members in the Counseling Center. This will tend to increase your comfort in making referrals and increase the likelihood of a proper match between the student's needs and the professional counselor's skills.