Follow this decision tree to figure out whom to contact when interacting with a student who is distressed, disruptive, or in crisis:
Is the student a danger to themselves or others? Do they need immediate assistance?
If yes:
- You observe: The student’s behavior is dangerous and/or threatening.
- Call ECPD at 617-824-8888 or 911.
- Next Step: Share the concern/details of what happened at emerson.edu/shareaconcern.
- Follow up with anyone else present (classmates, etc.) who may have been impacted and offer resources.
If you are not sure:
- You observe: The student shows signs of distress, but I’m not sure how serious it is.
- Consult with Student Care and Support or another appropriate office about the situation. If the student needs more urgent emotional support, connect the student with the Emerson Wellness Center at 617-824-8666 or the Uwill Crisis Line at 833-434-1217. Consider connecting the student to these or other resources directly as well.
- Next Step: Share the concern/details of what happened at emerson.edu/shareaconcern.
If no:
- You observe: The student does not need immediate support but does need resources.
- Consult (if needed) with Student Care and Support or another appropriate office about the situation. Consider connecting the student with resources mentioned directly as well.
- Next Step: Share the concern/details of what happened at emerson.edu/shareaconcern.
Remember
Take the time to share your concern using the Share a Concern form. Even if the student is already getting the support they need, making sure the appropriate staff are aware of the situation shows you care about the student’s holistic well-being and ensures that they continue to be supported.