Gardner-Webb University (GWU) recognizes that some students may face pressures coping with university life that could result in disruptive and/or threatening behaviors. To this end, GWU strives to create a climate where students are welcome to talk to counselors about personal problems and where referrals to mental health professionals are not stigmatized. This policy establishes the University protocols for responding to threatening student behaviors..
I. Referrals
A. Threatening BehaviorsFor purposes of this policy, threatening behaviors refer to student behaviors that may be life threatening including but not limited to: suicide threats; suicide attempts; verbal threats; physical threats or unstable behavior.
B. EmergencyAny student, faculty, or staff who observes a student engaging in threatening behaviors that pose an imminent threat to life is obligated to immediately contact University Police for emergency assistance at (704) 406-4444 or 911.
C. Non-emergencyAny student, faculty, or staff who observes a student engaging in threatening behaviors that is not life threatening should contact and inform the Vice President of Student Development and Dean of Students and the Director of the Counseling Center.
II. Notification
A. StudentThe Vice President of Student Development and Dean of Students and/or the Director of the Counseling Center will provide the student who is referred for threatening behavior with information that will include the following:
B. ParentalThe parents/guardians of a student will be contacted if a student engages in life threatening behavior.
III. Emergency Hospitalizations
A. TransportationAn ambulance or a family and/or friend will transport a student who engages in life threatening behavior to the local hospital Atrium Health Cleveland.
B. HospitalizationIf a student is admitted to the local hospital
C. Further Assessment and Treatment
D. DischargePrior to discharge, the Director of Counseling Services must be notified by medical personnel of the hospitalized student’s status, including a confirmation as to whether or not the student is able to return to campus, live on campus and recommendations for any follow-up treatment.
IV. Conditions for Return to GWU and/or Residence HallAfter being separated from the campus for threatening behavior, students must complete the following conditions to be cleared to return to classes and/or a residence hall:
A. Meet with the Dean of Students and Director of the Counseling Center to submit documentation from a mental health professional confirming whether or not: the student is no longer a threat to himself/herself or others; can safely participate in his/her academic program and/or resume independent living in a residence hall.
B. Schedule an appointment with a mental healthcare provider and make an immediate appointment with a University counselor or make an off-campus appointment with a psychologist for continued counseling support.