How to support each other, your students, or others who are in distress.
As you interact, be present to what is being said by employing the V-A-R method of active listening (from Active Minds: V-A-R: Validate, Appreciate, Refer®):
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- Validate: Let the person know what they are experiencing is okay and that you are empathetic to what they are sharing. Example, “I’m sorry you are struggling right now.”
- Appreciate: Someone sharing a challenge is a challenge, express appreciation for their courage. Example, “Thank you for sharing with me.”
- Refer: You do not have to solve their issues. Refer them to appropriate support depending on the nature of the issue. Example, “Sometimes a mindfulness activity can help destress in the moment. Have you heard of mindfulnessforteens.com?” or “You might want to contact crisis text line (text 741-741), they can provide support via text in the moment at any time.”
Queens College Resources
Online and virtual wellness and mental health supports
Crisis Text Line (crisistextline.org): Text “Home” to 741-741. Crisis Text Line and offers free, on-demand crisis counseling using text messaging as a means to improve the critically needed access to crisis counseling. Trained Crisis Counselors are available 24/7 to receive texts and respond quickly to provide support.
7 Cups (7cups.com)
Free supportive chats and affordable online therapy resources.
Active Minds (ActiveMinds.org)
Mental health awareness and support for young adults.
Mental Health Apps
Headspace; Talkspace; Calm; Moodfit; MoodMission; Insight Timer.
Mindfulness for Teens (mindfulnessforteens.com)
A resource with recorded mindfulness meditations that you can use in class or provide to students for their use.
The Steve Fund Knowledge Center A repository of various resources to help people understand and address mental health issues focused on students of color.
Jed Foundation Mental Health Resource Starting the Conversation: College and Your Mental Health. This is a comprehensive guide to understanding college student mental health.
New York State Office of Mental Health Emotional Support Line – Call 844-863-9314
NYC 988 – Call or Text 988 for crisis support