Staff supporting students Mental Health Toolkit
Need help now?
Who do I refer to?
Take home messages
Roles and responsibilities
The University has a Duty of Care to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that the health and safety of persons is not placed at risk as a result of working with other staff, students, and other members of the University Community in conducting work for the University.
Policies and procedures
Be clear about your role and be guided by the University of Newcastle's policies and procedures. In particular you may be interested in:
- University of Newcastle Code of Conduct
- Student Conduct Rule
- Supporting Students with a Disability
- Promoting a Respectful and Collaborative University: Diversity and Inclusiveness
Confidentiality
As a rule of thumb, it is unwise to promise complete confidentiality at any time because situations can change. If the student's behaviour poses a risk to themselves or to others, you must try to keep them safe: that involves referring on and informing the appropriate people.
Warning bells should sound loudly if a student says to you:“I’ll tell you but only if you promise not to say anything to anyone else."
The implied trust may be an ego boost but it brings with it potential risks.
What can I do to help?
On the whole, the mental health literacy of the younger population is good so you could say something like: “I’m sure you’re aware that I would need to seek help if I’m worried about your safety or the safety of others around you. Apart from that understanding, I won’t talk about you with other people.”
You are not breaching student confidentiality if you want to discuss their situation with a colleague, providing you do not disclose identifiable details. Most students are happy to agree to allow you to share their information, provided you that you tell them:
- Who you’d like to speak to
- What you propose to say and
- Why you are seeking advice
It is respectful to limit the number of people who are aware of the student’s situation. If you debrief with partner, friends or family, be sure not to disclose the student’s name, gender, age, degree they are studying or any other information which is either identifiable or is not necessary for that conversation. The focus should be on your reactions and feelings, not on their story.
Be aware that corresponding via email can increase the risk of ambiguity or breaching privacy. It is far better to speak either in person or on the phone.
Boundaries
There are many compassionate staff who are very willing to help distressed students. It is important to maintain your professional boundaries at all times and to be aware of the changing pressures which you may be under.
Sometimes it is difficult to disengage from a student to whom you have offered considerable time. They connect with you and are adamant that they don’t want to talk to anyone else.
Ask yourself:
- Am I providing just enough support to stop them from seeking professional help?
- Can I keep doing this?
- Am I getting out of my depth?
You should not try to help when:
- You don’t have the experience, training or time to do so.
- This is not appropriate for your role.
- This meets your own need to feel wanted.
- The student wants advice about medication or therapeutic models.
If you want some advice about how to manage a student’s demands or to re-establish your boundaries, please call Counselling and Psychological Services on (02) 4921 6622.
You are not alone: you do not need to manage the situation alone. Seek some help and refer on.
References and Further Reading
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.