Identifying and Responding to a Concern

Members of the Radford University community should take any threat seriously. Reporting behaviors that may represent a threat to self, others or the safety of the University community to the appropriate authorities is encouraged. Reporting helps to ensure the appropriate administrators have the information necessary to do their jobs. The goal is to identify and reduce potential threats before they result in harm. 

As with many of life's problems, early intervention is often better. A person who receives appropriate help sooner, rather than later, may be less likely to experience more severe symptoms or cause harm to self or others. Staff seek to assure that campus service offices are aware of students in need of support and that these students have access to the appropriate campus services.

If you are unsure what do to, contact the Radford University Police (RUPD), Dean of Students Office, Student Counseling Services, Human Resources, or Office of Emergency Preparedness. By knowing the Warning Signs, and the resources that are available, you will be able to better identify and respond to a situation.

• Have an escape route
• Notify the Police IMMEDIATELY (Call 540-831-5500)
• Provide all possible information to the Police including the location, name of person(s) involved, description of perpetrator and type of weapon(s) used (if any)

Like a crisis, you need to:

• Get to a secure location as soon as possible
• Notify the Police
• Provide all information available to you
• Do not try to be the mediator!
• Remain calm

Do...

• Share your concerns by contacting the RUPD, Dean of Students Office (student or visitor), Human Resources (faculty/staff) or Student Counseling Services
• Listen and offer support in a non-judgmental way
• Widen options and explore alternatives for problem solving
• Ask direct questions about the person's intentions; if appropriate ask if the person is considering suicide or other acts of violence
• Communicate your concern for the person's well being
• Recommend that the person reach out to someone who can help them figure out what to do next (clergy, supervisor, mental health professional)
• Call the Police if you believe the risk of harm to self or others is immediate

Do Not...

• Say "everything will be alright"
• Dare the person to "do it"
• Tell the person about someone who "has it worse"
• Promise to keep the conversation a secret
• Leave the person alone if you believe the risk of harm to self or others is immediate
• Provide counseling if you are not qualified to do so