UNLV Support Team
All members of the UNLV community, family, and friends can play an invaluable role in helping students who are in distress
UNLV Support Team Referral
UNLV is committed to the health and safety of all members of our community. To safeguard our community, the UNLV Support Team has developed a comprehensive reporting system to share appropriate information so students can receive or stay connected to the academic support and student wellness services they need. This reporting system is one element of a safe and supportive campus community.
Protocol for Assisting Students in Distress
We encourage all members of the UNLV community to document incidents using the UNLV Support Team Referral and submit the form to the Office of Student Conduct (OSC). A student will have a right to see the UNLV Support Team Referral. Potential interventions will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
How to Help a Student in Distress Guidebook
This guidebook has been designed as a reference and resource for faculty and staff members and to support the training efforts of the university. It specifically provides faculty and staff with information about how to seek assistance and assist students in distress. Additional information is provided about managing difficult situations, behavioral signs that warrant concern, as well as resources for assisting students in accessing resources and services at UNLV. It is strongly recommended to schedule a training session for your department/unit/area.
If you or a loved one are experiencing thoughts of suicide, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Additional Support
Support Offices
All members of the UNLV community, family, and friends can play an invaluable role in helping students who are in distress. Your expression of interest, concern, and compassion is an important factor toward a student seeking the assistance they need. The Office of Student Conduct (OSC), Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Student Health Center (SHC), Disability Resource Center (DRC), University Police Services, Jean Nidetch CARE Center, and administrators stand ready to assist you. We hope these services will help you to identify a potentially difficult situation and provide you with specific ideas and resources when you encounter a student in distress.
It is important to note that the university does not expect you to assume the role of counselor, therapist, or police officer. For those responsibilities, UNLV has trained professionals who are ready to assist you with students in distress.
University Police Services
In situations when a student is severely impaired or potentially dangerous, University Police Services will need to be alerted by calling 702-895-3669.
Online Training
It takes practice to have difficult conversations. Please consider taking our free at-risk student training program. Students can use the enrollment key unlvstudents, and faculty can use the enrollment key unlvemp to complete an interactive tutorial on how to navigate conversations regarding mental health and well-being with one's friends or students.
More Resources
The UNLV Support Team works to connect students experiencing housing, food, or financial insecurity with resources they may find helpful. Please visit any of the below websites for additional information.
University Employee Assistance Program
It is important to recognize that working with disruptive or distressed students can be psychologically and emotionally difficult. It can be very helpful to discuss these issues with a colleague or supervisor or seek professional stress debriefing assistance through the university’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), ComPsych, at 833-475-1995. You may also contact the UNLV Benefits Office at 702-895-3504 if you have questions or require additional information about the Employee Assistance Program.
STudent IN DISTRESS Contacts
Scott Hoffman, Chair/Care Manager
UNLV Support Team
Central Desert Complex, Bldg #1, Rm. 121
Phone:: 702-895-1404
Fax: 702-895-2514
Email: scott.hoffman@unlv.edu
Phillip Burns, Executive Director, Office of Student Conduct
UNLV Support Team
Central Desert Complex, Bldg #1, Rm. 123
Phone: 702-895-4076
Fax: 702-895-2514
Email: phillip.burns@unlv.edu