Historically, August is a month of transition, with students typically experiencing homesickness and trying to make friends and campus connections. This past month, CARE Team case managers worked with 76 students whose top concerns were distress, basic needs not being met and expressions of hopelessness, fear or worthlessness. Receiving 76 referrals in August is an appropriate reflection of the number of referrals seen over the last three academic years, as the average number of referrals in August is 75. However, one major change that was identified was the severity of student concerns.
The concerns shared above may not sound severe, but the follow-up care that took place shows their severity. In August, nine student transports took place, including students being transported for mental health or medical reasons. These levels of concern are historically what the CARE Team sees around weeks seven through eight of the semester but were occurring in the second and third weeks of students being on campus. When a student is transported to a higher level of care, the case managers for CARE Team work to coordinate services for the student post discharge. This includes setting up supports on campus, coordinating with professors and coordinating services within the community to ensure safety and wellbeing of the student.
In September 2023, the CARE Team saw a drastic increase in referrals as more students responded to wellness surveys and check-ins from staff and faculty, requesting that the CARE Team connect with them to offer support. Knowing this information, the CARE Team can predict that it will likely see a large increase in the number of referrals made to the office, and the severity of student concerns will continue to be present throughout the month of September. If you have any questions regarding CARE Team referrals or are interested in learning about trend observed throughout the semester, contact the CARE Team at 316-978-3149.
Here are ways you can help:
- If you see something, say something. Concerning behaviors should be shared with the appropriate offices so the student can receive support and barriers can be addressed. The CARE report can be found on the CARE Team website.
- Attend a CARE Team training. In these trainings, participants discuss the concerning behaviors that take place on WSU’s campus and coach staff and faculty on how to engage in those difficult conversations.
- Reach out. If you have questions, the CARE Team is happy to discuss your concerns and share how it can support you.