Take Action
Early intervention matters. If you see something concerning, say something—and take action.
Emergencies
If you have an imminent concern for someone based on a threat of harm to self or others, call 911 or the University of Maryland Police (UMPD) at 301.405.3333. This includes emergencies such as possession of a weapon, violence, destruction of property or suicidal ideation.
Non-Emergencies
If you are concerned about the welfare of a member of the university community, including students, faculty and staff and this is a non-emergency, we encourage you to report your concern.
Recognizing a Concern
Types of concerns to report
Emergencies
- Harm to self or others
- Medical emergency
- Hospitalization or hospital transport
- Death of a student or family member
- Missing student
Non-Emergencies
- Housing insecurity/houselessness
- Financial insecurity
- Academic concerns (Assistance with seeking resources and filing petitions)
- Health or mental health concerns
- Disruption or other conduct concerns
- Impacted by crime or assault
- Harassment, bias or discrimination
- Retention concerns
- Family emergency
- Events that are traumatic or disruptive
Distress signals & behaviors
- Depression – poor concentration, loss of interest, withdrawal.
- Agitation – anxious, unable to sit still.
- Disorientation – seems ‘out of it,’ may exhibit bizarre behavior.
- Suicidal expression – thoughts or threats.
- Alcohol and/or other drug abuse – including coming to class/work intoxicated and/or high.
- Increased irritability, undue aggressive or abrasive behavior.
- Excessive procrastination, poor class/work attendance, little or no work completed.
- Marked change in personal hygiene.
- Alarming or dangerous behaviors.
Questions to help you decide
- Has the individual’s personality changed?
- Has the individual’s behavior changed?
- Is the change in behavior gradual or is it sudden?
- What kind of support network does the person have?
- Is the individual doing anything about their situation?
Academic and Non-Academic Code Violations
Academic integrity violations and behavioral misconduct should be reported directly to the Office of Student Conduct.
What Happens After You Report
The Dean of Students Office reviews every report promptly and with care. Reports may be referred to the Behavioral Evaluation and Threat Assessment (BETA) Team, and we follow up as needed with both the individual who submitted the report and the student of concern to provide support and reduce barriers to success. Concerns about faculty or staff are also reviewed and routed to the BETA Team, which may consult with other offices.
Community Support
Faculty & Staff
Have a concern about a student? Refer to our FAQs for guidance on when and how to connect a student to the Dean of Students Office.
Parents & Families
The Office of Family Engagement serves as the primary contact for families of undergraduate students, offering guidance and resources when challenges arise.