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Helping a Hawk

How to Support a Monmouth Student in Distress

Monmouth Hawks fly together, and we look out for one another. If you notice a friend, classmate, roommate, or another Hawk struggling emotionally, academically, or socially, your support can make a meaningful difference. Please do not feel that you need to “fix” a situation—simply show care, listen, and help them connect to the right resources.

Table of Contents

Recognizing Signs a Friend May Need Help

Emotional or Behavioral Changes

  • Withdrawal from friends, classes, or clubs
  • Extreme irritability, sadness, or mood swings
  • Expressions of hopelessness or feeling like a burden
  • Increased worry, stress, or panic

Academic or Lifestyle Changes

  • Missing classes or falling behind in coursework
  • Dramatic changes in sleep, energy, or appetite
  • Noticeable decline in self-care or hygiene

Safety Concerns

  • Talking about wanting to die, disappear, or harm themselves
  • Engaging in risky or impulsive behavior
  • Excessive substance use
  • Experiencing or disclosing trauma or abuse

How to Start the Conversation

Try Using Statements Like These

  • “I’ve noticed some recent changes. Are you okay?”
  • “You’ve been on my mind. I care about you and want to check in.”
  • “You seem overwhelmed—how can I support you right now?”
  • “I’m here for you. You don’t have to go through this alone.”

Tips for the Conversation

  • Choose a private, distraction-free space.
  • Speak from a place of care, not judgment.
  • Listen more than you talk.
  • Avoid trying to “solve” their problems.
  • Validate their feelings.

If Your Friend Is in Immediate Danger

Encouraging Your Friend to Seek Support

Ways to Help

  • Offer to explore CPS services with them.
  • Sit with them while they make a call.
  • Walk them to CPS (Student Center, 3rd Floor).
  • Suggest Uwill’s 24/7 support line (833-646-1526).

Setting Boundaries and Taking Care of Yourself

  • Know your limits.
  • Do not promise secrecy if someone is unsafe.
  • Take breaks as needed.
  • Reach out to CPS for guidance.

When to Consult CPS (Even If Your Friend Won’t Go)

CPS counselors are available to help you strategize. Call 732-571-7517 during office hours.

Additional Resources:

Final Reminder

You are not alone in helping a friend—and neither are they. Monmouth University has a community of support ready to help Hawks take care of one another.