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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF
CONCERN
In learning about our many services
on campus to support healthy living,
you can be our partner to help
prevent any issues for your student.
Staying alert and in tune to any
signs or symptoms of concern will
help keep students healthy — both
mentally and physically. Below is a
list of signs of concerning behaviors
to keep in mind, but also know
many of these are common to the
student’s experience. You will want
to look for persistent patterns of
behavior that are out of character
for your student:
• Changes in sleeping or eating habits.
• Recurring colds or minor illnesses.
• Frequent muscle aches and/or tightness.
• Being more disorganized than usual.
• Increased difficulty in getting things done.
• Greater sense of persistent time pressure.
• Persistently sad, anxious, irritable or empty mood.
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities.
• Withdrawal from friends and family.
• Fatigue and decreased energy.
• Overreaction to criticism.
• Feeling unable to meet expectations.
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions.
• Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness or guilt.
• Persistent physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems
or chronic pains that do not respond to routine treatment.
• Substance abuse problems.
• Prescription or over-the-counter medication misuse.
• Signs of suicidal thoughts.
Tigers Together to Stop Suicide
Stress is a normal part of everyone’s life. Most times, students find
healthy ways to manage stress. However, there may be times when your
student needs help coping. To learn about warning signs for suicide and
Clemson University resources to promote emotional well-being, visit
clemson.edu/suicideprevention.Safety First
If your student is experiencing persistent psychological distress, suicidal
thoughts or actions, hopelessness/helplessness, loss of touch with reality,
substance abuse and/or aggression toward self or others that may be
considered a psychological emergency requiring you to act, encourage your
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