Let me guess... the reason you picked up this handout probably has to do with your desire to improve your self-esteem. Good. You'd be amazed at how many students really think badly about themselves. Some are down on themselves all the time, while others think negatively only on occasion.

You know that these college years can be complicated and demanding. Deep down, you are not quite sure of who you are, what you want to be, or whether the choices you make from day to day are the best decisions.

Sometimes the many changes and pressures you are facing threaten to overwhelm you. So it isn't surprising that from time to time you or one of your friends feel "down" or discouraged.

The following is a guide for IVC faculty and staff when their student is in crisis. The Health and Wellness Center (HWC) is available to assist during operating hours. Please visit the HWC homepage for the most updated hours.​

For a printable PDF of this guide, please download Protocol For Students In Crisis (PDF).

What is suicide?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is when people direct violence at themselves with the intent to end their lives, and die as a result of their actions. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States.

• People become infected generally by being in close contact with an infected individual (<6ft), and coming into contact with respiratory droplets
• Practice prevention of exposure to COVID-19 by:
1. staying home except for essentials
2. washing hands often with soap and water for >20 secs
3. cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces
4. wearing a mask if you are sick or to protect yourself from repeatedly touching your nose, mouth, face
5. practice social distancing of — 6ft when out

Domestic violence was already on the rise pre COVID-19, but the health crisis has caused a tremendous spike in incidents of abuse. According to Veronica Stephens, the Lead community education specialist at Laura’s House in South Orange County, with the shelter in place orders, they have received 65% more hotline calls than this time last year. Partners who are on the receiving end of harm in their relationship are actually stuck in the house with their abuser seven days a week.

These phone apps can be downloaded on your smart phone from Google Play (Android) or the Apple iOS app store. These apps are geared to help improve your health and well-being!

Student use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful. AR 5401 defines clear standards of conduct and drug/alcohol use on campus.

Alcohol Abuse Prevalence

According to the National Institute on alcohol abuse and alcoholism: