Faculty and Staff

Student mental health and well-being are important predictors of academic success and retention. Research shows that students who experience high levels of stress and psychological distress are more likely to struggle academically and less likely to persist toward graduation. In contrast, students who develop coping skills, connect with support resources, and engage in help-seeking behaviors demonstrate stronger academic persistence and retention outcomes (Zhai & Carney, 2024; Kivlighan et al., 2021). 

Primary CCS Prevention Resources 

• Let's Talk is a free, confidential consultation service that allows students to meet informally with a mental health professional without scheduling therapy. Faculty are encouraged to refer students who may benefit from support, problem-solving, stress management, or guidance connecting with campus resources. 
  
  
• Workshops provide education, skill-building, and practical tools on topics that are relevant to the college student experience. These workshops address common challenges that can impact student well-being and success, helping students develop skills to thrive both in and out of the classroom. 

Recommended Reading for Faculty and Staff 

1. The Role of Mental Health and Protective Factors in Student Academic Persistence and Retention During a Global Crisis 
2. The Role of Mental Health Counseling in College Students' Academic Success: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
3. Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing of University and College Students: A Systematic Review of Review-Level Evidence of Interventions

Key Takeaway: Encouraging students to participate in preventive mental health and well-being programs is not only a wellness strategy—it is a student success strategy that supports persistence and retention. 

Syllabus Statement 

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student’s ability to participate in daily activities. The Ohio State University offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. 

If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus via the Office of Student Life’s Counseling and Consultation Service (CCS) by visiting ccs.osu.edu or calling 614-292-5766. CCS is located on the 4th floor of the Younkin Success Center and on the 10th floor of Lincoln Tower. You can reach an on-call counselor when CCS is closed at 614-292-5766 and 24 hour emergency help is also available 24/7 by dialing or texting 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  

CarmenCanvas

Faculty play a key role in connecting students with resources that support their academic success and well-being. To make this easier, the ASC Distance Learning Course Template for CarmenCanvas includes a dedicated page of university-wide mental health and wellness resources that can be shared with students throughout the semester. For additional information and implementation guidance, visit the ASC Office of Distance Education website. 

Concerned about a student? 

1. Express your concern and encourage the student to seek support. 
2. Refer them to CCS to Talk to a Counselor. 
3. If the student is comfortable, offer to be present with them while they call or schedule. 
4. For urgent concerns, call directly at 614-292-5766, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and ask to speak to the first available clinician.

A Few Things to Know 

CCS Can:

• Answer questions about the referral process. 
• Consult with faculty and staff.
• Receive information about a student of concern.

CCS cannot: 

• Confirm whether a student has contacted CCS.
• Share information about a student's care or treatment. 

After Making a Referral 

After referring a student, follow up with them when appropriate to communicate care and concern. A brief check-in can reinforce your support and encourage continued help-seeking. At the same time, maintain your normal role and expectations as a faculty or staff member while allowing CCS to provide mental health support. 

Emergencies 

If unsure a student may be at risk, call CCS (614-292-5766) for consultation, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If anyone is in immediate danger, call 911 or Ohio State Police (614-292-2121). 

Signs a Student May Be Struggling

Academic Indicators 

• Significant decline in academic performance 
• Excessive absences or tardiness 
• Repeated requests for special consideration 
• Difficulty concentrating or participating in class 
• Excessive anxiety during class interactions 
• Unusual changes in communication or engagement 
• Falling asleep in class 
• Disruptive, concerning, or threatening behavior 
• Written work referencing self-harm or containing bizarre content 

Behavioral Indicators

• Noticeable changes in appearance or hygiene 
• Significant weight gain or loss 
• Marked changes in mood or behavior 
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions 
• Impaired speech or communication 
• Inappropriate or exaggerated emotional reactions 
• Evidence of substance misuse 
• Significant changes in sleep or appetite 

Responding to a Distressed Student 

If a student's behavior concerns you: 

• Remain calm and respectful. 
• Express concern about specific behaviors you have observed. 
• Listen without judgment. 
• Encourage the student to seek support. 
• Refer the student to appropriate campus resources. 
• Consult with CCS or other university support services when needed. 

You do not need to determine whether a student has a mental health condition. If you are concerned, it is appropriate to consult. 

Consultation and Support Resources 

Counseling and Consultation Service (CCS) 

Faculty and staff can contact CCS at 614-292-5766 to consult with a clinician regarding a student of concern, discuss referral options, or receive guidance on how to respond to a challenging situation. 

If calling for consultation, let the representative know you are a faculty or staff member seeking to speak with a clinician. 

Consultation and Assessment Team (CAT) 

The Consultation and Assessment Team (CAT) helps coordinate university support for students whose behavior raises concerns about their well-being, safety, or ability to succeed. 

Faculty and staff may wish to consult with CAT when: 

• Multiple concerns are emerging across different areas of a student's life. 
• A student's behavior is becoming increasingly concerning. 
• There are concerns about safety, risk, or significant distress. 
• You are unsure what resources or interventions may be appropriate. 
• A coordinated university response may be beneficial. 

CAT brings together professionals from across the university to assess concerns, coordinate support, and help connect students with appropriate resources before situations escalate. 

Emergency Situations 

If you have concerns about immediate safety or risk of harm: 

• Call 911 
• Ohio State University Police: 614-292-2121 
• Seek urgent assistance 

For additional guidance, review the Guide to Assist Distressed Individuals and learn more about supporting distressed students. 

Remember: You do not need to handle a concerning situation alone. CCS and CAT are available to help faculty and staff assess concerns, navigate difficult situations, and connect students with support. 

Training Opportunities 

Guiding Students to Wellness
The Student Wellness Center offers a Guiding Students to Wellness training that helps faculty and staff recognize concerns, support students, and connect them with resources. 

Dealing with Distressed and Disturbed Individuals
This interdisciplinary training provides guidance on recognizing concerning behaviors, effective referrals, safety considerations, and available university resources. For more information, contact Dr. Micky M. Sharma.

REACH Suicide Prevention Training
REACH is Ohio State's suicide prevention training program for students, faculty, and staff. 

Counseling and Consultation Service does not provide counseling to faculty or staff. However, Ohio State employees and their family members can access confidential support through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Licensed behavioral health professionals are available to help with personal or work-related concerns. For more information, call 800-678-6265.