Skip to main content

Counselling

UFV/Counselling/Resources for faculty and staff

Resources for faculty and staff

If you need immediate support outside UFV Counselling’s hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm), the following resources are available 24/7:

For non-urgent concerns or to connect during office hours, please contact us.

For personal crises after 4:30 pm or on weekends (when UFV Counselling is closed), contact the Suicide Crisis Helpline at 9-8-8.

Helping students navigate mental health concerns

Faculty and staff: 

We know supporting students' mental health can be tough. But you’re not alone in this. If you notice signs of distress, aren't sure how to discuss a sensitive topic, or need to refer a student to confidential counselling, we encourage you to connect with the Student Support team. They can provide support and resources for both you and the student. Our team is committed to helping you create a positive impact on your students’ well-being and success.

Why your support is crucial

You're often in the best position to spot when a student may be struggling. Your awareness and actions can greatly impact a student's life. You don’t need all the answers. Just showing you care, listening, and guiding them to professional help are strong first steps.

Recognizing the signs: how to support students

Signs a student may be in distress

Academic concerns

  • Noticeable decline in academic performance
  • Frequent or repeated extension requests

Situational challenges

  • Food, housing, or financial insecurity
  • Recent accident, injury, or bereavement involving the student or someone close to them
  • Bullying, harassment, discrimination, racism, and other hurtful actions

Mental health and behavioural indicators

  • Students share that their mental health challenges affect their schoolwork or personal lives
  • Changes in social engagement or peer interaction
  • Strong emotions to events can include tearfulness, anger, panic, or paranoia
  • You might see clear shifts in attitude or behaviour. This can include being irritable, aggressive, or emotionally distant.

How to help a student

Start the conversation

  • Start a supportive, non-judgmental conversation with the student if you see any warning signs.

Uncover the concern

  • Ask open-ended questions to understand what the student is going through.

Touch base

  • Listen to what the student says, and let them know you're there to help.

Probe possibilities and outcomes

  • Talk to the student about the support options they can use. Ask which steps they are ready to take.

Empower them

  • Help them find resources to encourage their independence. Offer guidance and support as they go through the process.

How to refer students for support

  • Direct students to our Counselling Services for free and confidential help.
  • If unsure, contact our Student Support team for consultation on how to proceed.
  • Provide context and observable behaviours to guide the response.
  • During normal working hours, you and/or the student may consult with a counsellor in Student Services by calling local 4528 (604-854-4528).
  • If there is an immediate safety risk, call UFV Security at local 7654 (1-855-239-7654).
  • Off-campus emergency supports are also available under emergency and after-hours support.
  • For more information on identifying the signs of a student in distress, issues to consider, ways to respond, and what to do after hours, see info for faculty and staff crisis support.

Support your own well-being

Supporting others can take a toll—don’t forget to care for yourself, too.

  • Through the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), you can access personal counselling and helpful resources.
  • Prioritize your mental health. Reach out to peers, talk things through and ask for support when you need it.

More support resources

Student Support Centre

You can help students facing academic, personal, or mental health challenges. Refer them to extra resources and support.

Student Support Centre »

Safety and Security

You can also contact Safety and Security for help with incidents, safety concerns, or campus emergencies.

Safety and Security »

We're here to help

If you have questions about our services or need help with booking or changing an appointment, contact us. We’re happy to support you!

Monday-Friday
9 am-4:30 pm

Abbotsford, B214
604-854-4528
View map (PDF)

Chilliwack, A1318
604-795-2808
View map (PDF)

Send us an email
ssfrontdesk@ufv.ca

Contact Us