Final answer:
When handling calls for mental health support, one should ensure safety, actively listen, and focus on timely and adequate staff availability to address the widespread need among students.
Step-by-step explanation:
Handling calls involving a person with mental health issues requires a compassionate, patient, and structured approach. The priority is always ensuring safety for all involved. Here are some suggestions for managing such calls effectively:
- Understand that wait times can exacerbate stress for those seeking help. Campus counselor Kay Payne noted that the current wait time for an appointment is about 10 days. Reducing this wait time could be a crucial step in providing timely support.
- Recognize the prevalence of mental health concerns. A survey showed that 75% of the students have faced mental health issues at some stage, indicating the need for broad-based support services.
- Work towards achieving the recommended staff-to-student ratio for mental health services. The International Accreditation of Counseling Services suggests one full-time staff member for every 1,000 to 1,500 students, a standard many institutions are currently not meeting.
Additionally, engaging in active listening, being open and respectful, and asking open-ended questions can lead to more effective communication and problem-solving. Avoiding inflaming the situation and focusing on constructive solutions instead of assigning blame are also key strategies.