Counseling Strategies

Counseling Strategies【For Mentors】

How to identify students in need of care？

Category	Indicators
Appearance	Rapid weight loss or gain Becoming sloppy in appearance Has body odor Facial expressions showing worry
Behavior	Frequent absences or falling asleep in class Sudden drop in academic performance Persistent distraction or absent-mindedness Avoidant gaze Avoiding social interaction Talking excessively
Dialogue	Expressing feelings of hopelessness about life Thoughts of life's meaninglessness Expressions of worthlessness e.g., "I can’t do anything right, I’m useless." Remarks such as "No one would care if I died."
Emotions	Increased irritability or anger Overwhelming sadness Extreme emotional reactions Apathy or lack of facial expressions

Q、How to assist students who are on mental health leave？

Just like taking leave for a cold, mental discomfort or emotional distress also requires taking mental health leave to allow for self-adjustment. By using the indicators above, we can provide timely support for students.

How to assist students？
1. Care through classroom sessions, homeroom meetings, individual attention, or small group interactions.
2. Inform students about the teacher’s concerns.
3. Explain why the teacher believes the student needs support.
4. Outline the assistance available from the Division of Counseling Services.

Reminder Protect yourself and maintain boundaries with students. Teachers can provide assistance within their capabilities without overextending themselves or compromising their principles. Offering help in a relaxed manner contributes to the sustainability of care.

What to do If the student refuses help?
1. Accompany the student to the Division of Counseling Service.
2. Ask the student if they are willing for the Division of Counseling Services to contact them.
3. Encourage the student to make an appointment through the Counseling and Care Service System (except in crisis situations).
4. Offer external counseling resources (including Mental Health Support Programs for young adults).

Q、Why is it necessary to inform students when referring them to the Division of Counseling Services in non-crisis situations？

Building a relationship is the most crucial and challenging first step in counseling. Establishing a relationship is essential for effective assistance. The goal of counseling is not merely to show concern through a single phone call but to emphasize the establishment of a long-term and sustainable support system.

National Taiwan Ocean University Office of Student Affairs