FAQs

What can you do to show concern for others and help keep our campus safe? Please read the FAQs below for more information.

What are the warning signs that a person may become violent?

• Often people who act violently have trouble controlling their feelings. They may have been hurt by others. Some think that making people fear them through violence will solve their problems or earn them respect. This isn’t true.

  People who behave violently lose respect. They find themselves isolated or disliked, and they still feel angry and frustrated.

  If you notice certain warning signs, violence is a serious possibility.

What can you do if someone you know shows violence warning signs of violence?

• When you recognize warning signs of violence in someone else, there are things you can do. Hoping that someone else will deal with the situation is the easy way out.

  Above all, be safe. Don’t spend time alone with people who show these signs. If possible without putting yourself in danger, remove the person from the situation that’s setting them off.

  Tell someone you trust and respect about your concerns and ask for help. This could be a family member, teacher, clergy member or a friend. On campus, contact UT Police Department, Student Counseling Center or Wellness 360.

  If you are worried about being a victim of violence, get someone in authority to protect you. Do not resort to violence or use a weapon to protect yourself.

  The key to really preventing violent behavior is asking an experienced professional for help. Do not try to handle the situation alone.

Are you at risk for violent behavior?

• If you recognize any of the warning signs for violent behavior in yourself, get help. You don’t have to live with the guilt, sadness and frustration that come from hurting others. Admitting you have a concern about hurting others is the first step. The second is to talk to a trusted professional.

How can I recognize suicidal behavior?

• Some people who have trouble dealing with their feelings don’t react by lashing out at others. Instead, they direct violence toward themselves. The most final and devastating expression of this kind of violence is suicide.

  Like people who are violent toward others, potential suicide victims often behave in a recognizable way before they try to end their lives. Suicide, like other forms of violence, is preventable. The two most important steps in prevention are recognizing warning signs and getting help.

What are the warning signs for suicide?

• Become familiar with warning signs of behavior that could escalate into violence:

  • Talks about committing suicide
  • Has trouble eating or sleeping
  • Exhibits drastic changes in behavior
  • Withdraws from friends or social activities
  • Loses interest in school, work or hobbies
  • Prepares for death by writing a will and making final arrangements
  • Gives away prized possessions
  • Has attempted suicide before
  • Takes unnecessary risks
  • Has recently experienced serious losses
  • Seems preoccupied with death and dying
  • Loses interest in his or her personal appearance
  • Increases alcohol or drug use

How can I tell if I am stressed out and should see help?

• Answer the following questions. The more questions you answer with a “yes,” the more important it is that you should seek help.

  • Do you feel overloaded?
  • Do you feel more burdened than usual?
  • Do you find yourself feeling short-tempered, and losing patience with others lately?
  • Are you feeling frustrated by things that usually don’t frustrate you?
  • Do you have difficulty concentrating?
  • Are you crying more than usual?
  • Have you had any major change in appetite or sleep patterns?
  • Are you experiencing stomach pain or uneasiness?
  • Are your neck and shoulders sore? Are you having backaches?
  • Are you clenching or grinding your teeth?
  • Are you experiencing feelings of hopelessness about academic, professional or personal problems?
  • Do you feel you just can’t see your way out of the situation?