The Supporting Students in Distress: Response Guide for Employees is designed to help recognize signs of student distress, respond with care, and refer students to supports.
Download the Response GuideIf there is an immediate safety concern
Reach out for help right away if you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm to themselves or others.
- Call 9-1-1. If on campus, also contact BCIT Security at 604-451-6856 to help direct emergency services when they arrive.
- Call or text 9-8-8 National Suicide Crisis Helpline for 24/7 support if a student expresses thoughts of suicide.
Inside the Response Guide
- Elements of an effective response
- Considerations for Indigenous and equity-deserving students
- Overview of Early Assist (non-emergency service)
- Support Navigation Tool for emergencies, urgent situations, and general concerns
- What to do if a student says “no” to a referral
- Resources for employee wellbeing
Request training
Build confidence and set healthy boundaries when supporting students. Invite the Student Life team to facilitate a workshop at your next department or team meeting.
Acknowledgements
This Response Guide was developed in collaboration with service providers and academic representatives from across BCIT’s Schools and campuses. Contributors include Campus Security, Counselling & Student Development, Student Life (Early Assist), Health Services, Indigenous Initiatives, and faculty representatives.
Its content draws on best practices from supporting students in distress resources from other post-secondary institutions, and the research conducted by Dr. Morgan Westcott. We extend our sincere gratitude to the faculty and staff who contributed to the community engagement process and who continue to champion wellbeing every day.