Referring a Student to CAPS

You Can Help Connect Students with Mental Health Support

You Don't Have to Be an Expert to Help

Faculty, staff, and other student supporters play a powerful role in connecting students to campus resources. When students are aware of what's available, they're more likely to seek support—and that can make all the difference.

You can help make mental health resources more accessible by including a brief slide at the start of a class or meeting, adding a statement to your syllabus, or mentioning support options during conversations with students.

If you're ever concerned about a student's mental health, consider referring them to CAPS. We're here to make it easier for students to connect with the support they need. And if the best fit is outside of CAPS, we'll help them identify their next steps.

Referring to CAPS or Other Mental Health Support

If you're ever in doubt about how to handle a student concern, call CAPS at 520-621-3334. A CAPS professional will return your call and problem-solve with you about your situation. 

Routine Student Concerns

Sometimes a simple check-in with a trusted instructor or staff member can help a student feel more grounded. If a student comes to you, ask how they’re coping and who they turn to for support. Take the opportunity to mention CAPS, our online scheduling, or any other helpful campus or community resources.

Urgent Concerns & Mental Health Crises (No Immediate Safety Concerns)

A mental health crisis involves intense distress or behavioral changes that interfere with a student’s ability to function or care for themselves. It may show up as uncharacteristic or prolonged struggles with mood, behavior, academic performance, or daily life.

If you're concerned a student may be in crisis:

Emergent Concerns (With Immediate Safety Concerns)

Immediate safety concerns involve a risk of harm to the student, to others, or to yourself, and require urgent action. If you are concerned about someone’s immediate safety:

On campus:

  • Call 911 for emergencies requiring police, fire, or medical assistance.
  • For non-emergencies, call the UAPD non-emergency line at (520) 621-8273
  • The UA Crisis Mobile Team (UACMT) can also be dispatched through UAPD. UACMT responds to mental health crises within the University of Arizona boundaries that UAPD serves.

Off-campus or online students:

  • Call 911 for emergencies.
  • For mental health concerns that do not require an emergency response, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. The operator will connect you with the local crisis team based on the student’s location and ask questions about the situation, including safety concerns, suicidal thoughts, access to weapons, or relevant history.

After taking action, please file a CARE Report with the Dean of Students Office to ensure follow-up and coordination.

Additional Resources