What is the Best Way to Help?

Any problem that is causing concern is appropriate for discussion at Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). While one may think a problem is not serious enough to seek help, the determining factor can be the extent to which it seems to interfere with their activities, thoughts or feelings. This is discussed in detail on the A First Visit to CAPS web page. 

The best way to help may be to suggest they visit CAPS, offering to accompany them to their first appointment (call 966-3658 to schedule appointments or to talk with the Urgent Consultation Team). Urgent Consultations are available at CAPS for the same day. After hours care is offered through the After hours HealthLink (966-2281). 

Remember:

• Seeking therapy is a personal choice
• No one can make the person's choice for them
• If the person is reluctant or refuses to visit CAPS (and it is not an emergency):
  • don't force the issue, simply restate your concerns and the available options
  • suggest that confronting a problem is a positive sign of health and maturity.
  • acknowledge, validate, and discuss the person's concerns about visiting CAPS
  • remind them that the therapists at CAPS have years of expertise in helping college-age people
  • remind them that CAPS is free and confidential
  • be friendly, remain open and available to help in the future
  • suggest they take some time to think it over
• Emergencies are more than you, alone, can be expected to help with.
• In Emergency situations involving students who are unwilling or unable to seek help on their own, call CAPS at 966-3658 and speak with the Urgent Consultation Team, or call 911.
  • An Emergency is defined as a situation in which a person's life is in immediate danger (i.e., suicide threat or dangerousness to self or others).
• Long-term distress is more than you should expect to help with. Don't expect to stay up all night, night after night, with a distressed friend. It's not your job, and it hurts you and your life. CAPS is here to help you both.