Emergency Response - Student/People in Crisis

Background Information

The following information provides basic guidelines for assisting people with emotional, chemical, or psychological issues. For more extensive information, please contact Counseling & Psychological Services at 593-1616 or Ohio University Police Department at 593-1911 and request additional information on this topic.

Mental Illness:

DO:

  • DO be respectful
  • DO attribute symptom(s) to the illness
  • DO maintain poise and self-control
  • DO maintain personal space
  • DO keep your voice low and calm
  • DO use short, simple statements
  • DO keep your hands in view
  • DO be matter-of-fact
  • DO reduce contact if the individual is especially ill

Don't:

  • DON’T give sharp commands or use threats
  • DON’T challenge – verbally or physically
  • DON’T argue, criticize, or be judgmental
  • DON’T make promises you can’t keep
  • DON’T take anger personally 

    Alcohol & Chemical Dependency

    These issues can become debilitating and detrimental to the well-being of the individual and those around them. Resources are readily available through Counseling & Psychological Services at 593-1616 or Tri-County Mental Health at 592-3091 to help deal with the dependency and residual effects. The concern of an arrest should not deter you from seeking assistance for individuals; their long term well-being should be the primary concern.

    Traumatic Incident

    Be reassuring to the victim or witnesses and immediately dial 911 or contact Ohio University Police at 593-1911 to initiate assistance resources.

Action Steps

Mental Illness:

  • DO be respectful
  • DO attribute symptom(s) to the illness
  • DO maintain poise and self-control
  • DO maintain personal space
  • DO keep your voice low and calm
  • DO use short, simple statements
  • DO keep your hands in view
  •  DO be matter-of-fact
  • DO reduce contact if the individual is especially ill
  • DON’T give sharp commands or use threats
  • DON’T challenge – verbally or physically
  •  DON’T argue, criticize, or be judgmental
  • DON’T make promises you can’t keep
  • DON’T take anger personally

Alcohol & Chemical Dependency

  • Contact Counseling & Psycology 593-1616 or Tri-County Mental Health 592-3091

Traumatic Incident:

  • Call 911 or the Ohio University Police Department 593-1911

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