The following indicators can be important signs of distress.

You may notice a cadet exhibiting one or more of the academic, physical, or emotional signs and decide that something is wrong or you may have a "gut-level feeling" that something is amiss. If the latter is the case, don't dismiss your feelings or feel that you need to wait for tangible "proof" that a problem exists. A simple check-in with the cadet may help you get a better sense of his/her situation.

It is possible that any one of these signs, in and of itself, may simply mean that a cadet is having an “off” day. Consider consulting with a colleague, supervisor, the CCC, or other trusted member of the VMI community to share your observations and discuss how you might respond (see "How To Respond")

Academic signs

• Deterioration in quality/quantity of work
• A negative change in classroom or research performance (e.g., drop in grades)
• Missed assignments or exams
• Repeated absences from class or from lab
• Disorganized or erratic performance
• Decline in enthusiasm in class (e.g., no longer choosing a seat in the front of the room)
• Cadet sends frequent, lengthy, “ranting” or threatening types of emails to professors
• Continual seeking of special provisions (e.g., late papers, extensions, postponed exams, and projects)

Physical signs

• Falling asleep in class or other inopportune times
• A dramatic change in energy level (either direction)
• Worrisome changes in hygiene or personal appearance
• Significant changes in weight
• Frequent state of alcohol intoxication (i.e., bleary-eyed, hung-over, smelling of alcohol)
• Noticeable cuts, bruises or burns on cadet

Emotional signs

• Inappropriate emotional outbursts (unprovoked anger or hostility, sobbing)
• Exaggerated personality traits; more withdrawn or more animated than usual
• Expressions of hopelessness, fear or worthlessness; themes of suicide, death and dying in papers/projects
• Direct statements indicating distress, family problems, or other difficulties