How do I help?
We all play a vital role in ensuring the safety of our Converse community.
Please consider the following:
- Speaking with the student individually
- Filling out a Converse Cares Alert Form
Show you care, connect on a feeling level, listen.
- “I’m concerned about you and noticed you haven’t been sleeping, eating, going to class, etc.”
- “How are you feeling?”
- Reflect back their feelings and paraphrase: “What I hear you say is that you are in a great deal of pain and feel hopeless.”
- “I’m glad you called.”
- Listen with respect. Individuals in distress want understanding and care.
Ask about suicide directly.
- “Sometimes when people feel sad, they have thoughts of killing themselves. Have you had such thoughts?”
- “Are you thinking of killing yourself?”
- “Have you considered suicide?” “How would you go about it?” “When would you do that?”
- Remember, asking about suicide does NOT put the idea in people’s minds.
Get help. Explore options. Offer resources.
- “What would help now?” “Who can help?” “Who usually helps?” “How can I help?”
- Get assistance. Avoid trying to be the only lifeline for this person. Seek out resources even if it means breaking a confidence.
- “How would you feel about going to the Wellness Center? Let’s call right now. I’ll walk over with you to see a counselor.”
- Wellness Center, 864-596-9258, Monday through Thursday 8:30 – 5:00, Friday, 8:30 – 2:00.
- After hours, contact Campus Safety or RD on call.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK
- Call 911 if this is an acute crisis.
What Not To Do
- Do not promise to keep the person’s thoughts of suicide a secret.
- Do not leave the person alone.
- Do not offer simple solutions.
- Do not suggest drugs or alcohol as a solution.
The BIT strongly encourages you to utilize its referral services. Please know the success of this process hinges on community commitment to reporting concerns.
Converse Cares
Reports are given directly to the appropriate area contact to advance investigations and reconciliation.