Graduate students have a unique set of circumstances that can cause stress, strain,
and strife when pursuing their studies at a college or university. These challenges can get in the way of their academic progress, social lives, and general wellness, and in some cases exacerbate existing mental health problems. As the world tragically learned following the shooting in Aurora, Colorado, these issues can have unimaginable consequences, causing students to snap and become violent. How do we recognize the signs and symptoms of extreme stress, and when does it have the potential to turn violent? What does the typical graduate student experience really look like—just how stressed are they? How can we best help alleviate unhealthy stress levels? How can campus departments work together to better address the warning signs that may lead to violence?
This webinar will address these questions, as well as some of the very unique challenges facing today’s graduate students. Participants will learn how student affairs staff can best assist them. The seminar will also review important warning signs and behaviors related to potential harm to self or others.
Participants will be able to:
- Explain the unique stressors facing graduate students including: financial, social, academic, and emotional
- Discuss the common mental health warning signs related to depression, anxiety, psychosis, and personality disorders
- Learn the importance of referring an at-risk student for help as well as sharing information with their campus Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT)
- Apply the basics of threat assessment to at-risk students to better mitigate the potential risk of the student harming others on campus
- 4-year institutions (public and private)
- Graduate Student Advisors
- Faculty
- Vice President of Academic Affairs/Instruction
- Dean of Instruction
- Vice President of Student Services/Affairs
- Dean of Student Services/Affairs
- Campus Safety
- Anyone on campus who works with graduate students
