Violent Students
Dealing With a Distressed or Potentially Violent Person
Any member of the CSU Pueblo community may come in contact with a distressed or potentially violent person. The information below includes warning signs, response guidelines, and campus resources to help you respond safely and connect the person with appropriate support.
If there is an immediate threat to safety, call or text 911. From a campus phone, dial 8, then 911.
Resources
Call or text 911. From a campus phone, dial 8, then 911.
719.549.2373
719.549.2586
719.549.2838
719.549.2830
Warning signs
Warning signs may look different from person to person. The following signs may indicate that someone is distressed, escalating, or in need of support:
Emotional or behavioral signs
- Acting depressed or showing no motivation
- Withdrawal
- Agitation
- Forgetfulness
- Hyperactivity
- Poor concentration
- Poor hygiene
- Disorientation
- Paranoia
- Bizarre behavior
- Rambling or disconnected speech
Safety-related signs
- Suicidal thoughts or comments
- Preoccupation with death
- Increased substance use
- Loud or confrontational language
- Disruptive behavior
- Bullying or intimidation
- Harassing or stalking behavior
- Verbal or written threats
- Access to a weapon
- Physically violent behavior
Interaction guidelines
If you are the first person to be in contact with a distressed student, use the following suggestions:
Safety first
Maintain a safe distance and keep an escape route available. If there is an emergency or immediate safety concern, call 911 or dial 8, then 911 from a campus phone.
Avoid escalation
Do not assert authority or threaten the person with demands. Do not touch the person, as they may be easily provoked. Try to listen and show support.
Ask general questions
If you know the person’s name, use it and ask general questions such as, “Are you OK?” or “Would you like to talk about what’s happening?” Overly direct questions may be perceived as a challenge or threat.
Be aware of body language
Respect personal space, minimize body movements, keep an open posture, avoid raising your voice, and nod when appropriate. Maintain eye contact when it feels safe and appropriate.
Know your limits. Listening and referring the person for further help may be what is needed. Be accepting and nonjudgmental, and thank the person for confiding in you.
Take care of yourself
Be careful not to overextend yourself. If you answer yes to one or more of the following questions, consider confiding in someone about the situation or reaching out for support.
- Are you stressed or overwhelmed about the situation?
- Are you feeling angry with the student?
- Are you thinking of adopting or rescuing the student?
- Are you reliving similar experiences of your own?
