How to Help

You may be the first person to SEE SOMETHING as warning signs can manifest themselves in many forms: one-on-one settings, group interaction, public behavior, letters, emails, blogs, websites, social networking sites, photos, phone calls or text messages.

Someone exhibiting troubling behaviors in your presence is likely having difficulties in various settings, such as in the classroom, with a roommate, with their family or even in social settings. Trust your instincts and SAY SOMETHING if someone leaves you feeling worried, alarmed or threatened.

Do not ignore or downplay direct or indirect threats from any person, since they could escalate into serious incidents later on. DO SOMETHING. To prevent the escalation of such incidents, every member of the campus community should learn to recognize and report behavior that is disruptive, intimidating or could potentially lead to violence. If you are unsure of what to do, make a report so we can assist.

How You Can Help

Referring a person in distress is a good step toward getting them support. Often there are conversations you can have directly with the person before the situation escalates to a BIT referral.

We encourage the following when trying to help a person:

• Approach with empathy and respect.
• Be direct with what you have observed and how you are concerned for them.
• Listen carefully with a non-confrontational approach and calm voice. Ask open-ended questions.
• Follow through by providing resources.
• Report and document the interaction with BIT.
• Document the interaction and report the concern.

How to Respond to a Situation