Dean of Students
Recognize Concerning Behavior
If you observe any of these behaviors, contact University Police immediately at 931-372-3234:
- Physical violence towards others (shoving, grabbing, assault, use of weapons)
- Communicating direct threats to harm themselves or others
- Expressing themes of hopelessness, rage, worthlessness, despair, suicidal ideation
- Stalking or harassing others
- Any other behavior that you feel is clearly reckless, disorderly, dangerous, or threatening or is suggestive of imminent harm to self or others in the community.
Possible indicators of distressed individuals NOT requiring emergency response:
- Strange behavior that is out of context
- Unusual content in writings or presentations
- Overly demanding of faculty/staff鈥檚 time and attention
- Excessive crying or panicked reactions
- Sudden decline in quality of coursework and/or grades or work performance
- Significant changes in physical appearance (grooming/hygiene, weight loss/gain)
- Appears excessively fatigued or lethargic
- Seems to be disoriented or 鈥渙ut of it鈥� often
This list is not inclusive of all concerning behaviors. If you observe behaviors you believe suggest immediate harm to themselves or others, contact University Police immediately.
If you find yourself preoccupied thinking about a student鈥檚 well-being or feel uneasy about an interaction, contact the Counseling Center, or if you鈥檙e not concerned about the student鈥檚 immediate safety, submit a referral form.
When in doubt, reach out!
