The Red Folder Project provides a file folder with information for those assisting students who are in distress. The printed folder is available upon request or its contents can be viewed and downloaded.
Red Folder information
Key content of the Red Folder is provided here for quick access.
See also: Campus Contacts and Resources
Response protocol
Is the student or employee a danger to self or others, or do they need immediate assistance for any reason?
Yes.
The person’s conduct is clearly and imminently reckless, disorderly, dangerous or threatening, including self-harm or a medical emergency.
Physical emergency
- Campus Police: 314-935-5555
Or pick up a blue light emergency phone - Off campus: 911
Mental health emergency
- Campus Police: 314-935-5555
Or pick up a blue light emergency phone - Off campus: 9-8-8
Not Sure.
| The person shows signs of distress, but I am unsure how serious it is. My interaction has left me feeling uneasy or concerned. | |
| Daytime Consultation: Center for Counseling and Psychological Services, 314-935-6695 or WashU Cares 314-935-3566 | |
| After Hours Consultation: TimelyCare, 833-484-6359 | |
| Encourage them to utilize Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CCPS) | |
| Encourage use of the TimelyCare app | |
| Refer the student to the resources listed in this folder. | |
| Submit a Care Report with WashU Cares. |
After Hours Consultation: TimelyCare, 833-484-6359
No.
| I’m not concerned for the person’s immediate safety, but they could use some support or resources | |
| Encourage them to utilize Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CCPS) | |
| Encourage use of the TimelyCare app | |
| Refer the student to the resources listed in this folder. | |
| Submit a Care Report with WashU Cares. |
Indicators of distress
SEE SOMETHING
SAY SOMETHING
DO SOMETHING
A person’s behavior, especially if it changes over time, may be an indicator of distress. You might be the first person to recognize signs of distress, especially if you have frequent or prolonged contact with a student or colleague.
Trust your instincts if someone leaves you feeling worried, alarmed or threatened
Safety indicators
| Unprovoked anger or hostility | |
| Implied or direct threats to harm self or others | |
| Stalking or harassing | |
| Your gut feeling that there is a safety risk |
Emotional indicators
| Self disclosure of distress (relationship/family issues, grief, suicidal thoughts, etc.) | |
| Excessive tearfulness, worry, anxiety, panic, fear, irritability or apathy | |
| Extreme mood changes – extreme highs and lows | |
| Verbal abuse | |
| Concern from peers |
Physical indicators
| Marked changes in physical appearance, grooming, hygiene or weight | |
| Excessive fatigue or sleep disturbances | |
| Intoxication, disorientation or smelling of alcohol and/or other drugs |
Academic/work indicators
| Sudden decline in quality of work or grades | |
| Avoiding friends or social situations | |
| Problems concentrating or learning | |
| Repeated absences | |
| Bizarre content in writings or presentations | |
| Repeated classroom disruptions |
Confidentiality and FERPA
FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) permits communication about a student of concern in connection with a health and safety emergency. Observations of a student’s conduct or statements made by a student may be shared with college administrators, campus police, the counseling center, or other Washington University faculty and staff who need to know in order to promote student and campus safety.
Guidelines for intervention
Contact the Student Health Center or the Center for Counseling & Psychological Services, WashU Cares, Work Life Solutions, or Washington University Police Department for consultation on the seriousness of the situation, as well as strategies for how to best support the person.
Act sooner rather than later, and remember—safety first! If you are concerned for your own safety or the safety of others, do not hesitate to call 911 or Washington University Police Department at 314-935-5555.
Distressed behavior
Let the individual know you are concerned about them and would like to help.
| Allow them to discuss their thoughts and feelings, which often helps relieve pressure. | |
| Ask about suicide directly: “Are you thinking about suicide or killing yourself?” | |
| Really listen to their answer, and let them know you care. | |
| Avoid offering lots of advice or solutions. | |
| For students during business hours, give them information about counseling services. Call the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services first, and then if the student is willing and you are comfortable you can offer to walk the student over or provide a space for them to have a private virtual appointment. | |
| For students outside of business hours, give them information about TimelyCare services and 9-8-8, the 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. |