How should OLs refer students to mental health resources during orientation?

• A. Provide contact information and location of the Counseling Center; avoid diagnosing or treating.
• B. Diagnose students with mental health conditions.
• C. Suggest self-diagnosis based on questions.
• D. Avoid mentioning mental health resources.

Answer: (A)

When guiding students to mental health resources, the key is to connect them with professional help rather than trying to assess or treat them yourself. The correct approach is to provide the Counseling Center’s contact information and location, and to make clear that orientation leaders do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions. This keeps boundaries clear, ensures students get qualified support, and reduces potential harm from someone untrained attempting to diagnose.

In practice, you can say something like: “If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, the Counseling Center is here to help. Their location is X, and you can reach them at Y phone number or Z email. They provide confidential counseling and can connect you with the right resources.” It’s also important to acknowledge safety: if there’s an immediate risk, follow campus crisis procedures and connect the student with emergency services.

Avoid anything that implies you’re making a diagnosis or providing treatment, and avoid telling students to self-diagnose. Including these resources in orientation helps normalize seeking help and supports students in getting appropriate care.