Individuals in Emotional Distress

Individuals in Emotional Distress Hero Image

Definition

 An individual who is an immediate threat to their safety and/or the safety of others via panic attacks, emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or substance abuse issues.

If it is safe to do so: DO NOT LEAVE THIS INDIVIDUAL AT RISK OF HARMING THEMSELVES UNTIL A SAFETY OFFICIAL RELIEVES YOU.

Response (QPR)

Speak with the individual privately and actively listen while expressing concern. Try to act as

non-threatening as possible and try to discuss your observations and concerns. Firmly and

kindly refer them to professional help. To ensure that they are actively getting help, call from the

location.

Refer to the QPR method for engaging with at risk individuals

Q – Question

P – Persuade

R – Refer

Q – Question

Ask the individual about how they have been feeling recently and if it relates to any thoughts of

death. Try not to approach with judgement and if you do not think that you can ask the

question, find someone else who can.

P – Persuade

Listen to the individual and make sure that you give them your full attention, and try not to express judgement. Try to give them hope and remember that their perceived insoluble problem is the real issue at hand. Ask them to go with you to get help or to let you help them.

R – Refer

Stay with the person while you connect them to help. This can be the police, the suicide and crisis lifeline, or a counselor.

On-Campus Resources

  • Trone Center for Mental Fitness (counseling services) and after-hours crisis line:
  • 864-294-3031, press #3 (confidential, available 24/7)
  • Office of Spiritual Life: 864-294-2133 (M-F, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.)
  • Office of Student Life: 864-294-2202 (M-F, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.). After-hours: 864-294-2111

Report an individual in LiveSafe

  1. Open the LiveSafe app
  2. Hit the blue plus button at the bottom
  3. Select “Mental Health”

Note: You have the option to submit reports anonymously.

Prevention

Look after your friends and peers! Notice any changes in their academic performance, their behavior in the classroom and in the community, or even their appearance. Try to take steps early on.

  • Cues that an individual may at risk
  • Verbal expression of feeling depressed
  • Talks of suicide, plans of suicide, or death
  • Expressed threats to hurt themselves
  • Substance abuse through drugs or alcohol
  • Acquiring a weapon
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Unexplained anger and outbursts
  • Major relationship change
  • Financial problemsVictim of assault of bullying

Engage in the QPR method if you notice signs in individuals.

Contact Information

Furman University Police Department: (864) 294-2111

Travelers Rest Police Department: (864)-834-9029

Greenville City Police Department: (864) 271-5333

Use LiveSafe App

1. Open the LiveSafe App

2. Click on “Emergency Options”

3. Select desired communication

Non-Urgent Questions?

Contact Chief Milby at [email protected]