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Recognizing When a Student May Need Support

“Every student matters. Every sign counts. Your awareness can be their turning point.”

Students may sometimes experience challenges that affect their well-being, daily life, or academic success. Members of the UTA community may notice changes that suggest someone could benefit from additional support. These examples are not meant to diagnose or label a student. Instead, they highlight situations where it may be helpful to check in with a student and/or connect them with support.

You do not need to be certain that a student is experiencing a serious problem to submit a CARE referral. If something feels concerning, it is okay to reach out. The guidance below follows a simple approach:

See something → Sense concern → Say something → Do something

You may notice changes in a student’s behavior, engagement, or well-being that suggest they could be experiencing challenges.


Academic Indicators
  • Missing classes or assignments more frequently
  • A noticeable change in academic performance
  • Difficulty concentrating or completing coursework
  • Withdrawing from class engagement, discussions, or group work
  • Repeated request for special consideration

Emotional or Well-Being Indicators
  • Appearing unusually withdrawn, overwhelmed, or upset
  • Sudden changes in mood or energy
  • Expressing feelings of stress or difficulty coping
  • Visible frustration, tearfulness, or fatigue

Personal or Life Challenges
  • Experiencing a significant life event such as loss, injury, or illness
  • Sharing concerns about housing, finances, or basic needs
  • Navigating relationship challenges or family stress
  • Mentioning personal situations affecting their academic work
  • Changes in physical appearance

Noticing these changes does not mean something is wrong – it may simply mean the student could benefit from support.

If something feels out of the ordinary or concerning, it is okay to trust your instincts. You do not need to determine exactly what is happening or how serious the situation is. Recognizing that a student may be struggling is often the first steps in helping them get support.

If you feel comfortable doing so, consider checking in with the student privately. Simple statements can open the door for conversation:

  • “I’ve noticed you seem to be having a difficult time lately and wanted to check in.”
  • “You’ve missed a few classes recently and I wanted to see how you’re doing.”
  • “If something is affecting your ability to focus on school, there may be resources that could help.”

When talking with a student:

  • Listen without judgment
  • Show care and concern
  • Encourage them to connect with campus resources

If you are concerned about a student, you can submit a CARE Team referral. The CARE Team reviews referrals and works with campus partners to connect students with helpful resources and support services.

You can also contact the CARE Team for consultation if you are unsure how to support a student or want to talk through a situation.

Emergency Situations

Some situations may require immediate action. Contact 911 or UTA Police at 817-272-3003 immediately if a student:

  • Talks about wanting to harm themselves or someone else
  • Expresses thoughts about suicide
  • Appears to be in immediate danger
  • Is unable to care for themselves or communicate clearly

After emergency assistance has been contacted, you submit a CARE referral so the student can receive follow-up support. Please keep in mind that CARE referrals are monitored during regular business hours, Monday through Friday between 8 am and 5 pm.

Refer a Student to CARE Team

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