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How to Help a Student in Distress

Care

The Bentley Care Team

The goal of the Care Team is to connect students with essential resources and services to effectively navigate personal difficulties. The Care Team is a small multidisciplinary group of professional staff members on campus who collaborates across the university to support students.

You can help connect a student with these essential resources and services by submitting a Care referral Submissions are reviewed during university business hours typically within 1-2 business days.  For emergencies, contact University Police at 781.891.3131 (on-campus) or dial 911 (off-campus). The Care Team plays a secondary role to all urgent circumstances and should be contacted only after initial emergency notifications are made.

Supporting a Student

Every member of the Bentley community can play a role in supporting a student who is struggling. This short document offers practical tips for recognizing signs of distress, having a supportive conversation, and connecting students with the right campus resources — whether the situation calls for a listening ear, a referral to the Counseling Center, or immediate crisis support. You don't need to be a mental health expert to make a difference; often, noticing, checking in, and knowing who to call is enough to help a student find the support they need. 

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Self Guided

Self-Guided Materials

The Counseling Center has created the following Self-Guided materials to help you support a student in distress.

Supporting a Friend Self-Guided Graphic

Supportive Conversations with Emotional Students