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Supporting Students After a Tragic Event

Guidance for UT Faculty

In the Classroom: What Helps

Acknowledge with care
Keep it simple.
“I know many of us are carrying a lot right now. I’m here to support your learning.”

Expect different reactions
Students may show grief, anger, numbness or difficulty focusing. Others may not show visible reactions.

Listen, don’t solve
If a student shares, focus on listening.
“Thank you for sharing. Would you like help finding support?”

Offer small options
Give students some control:

  • Step out if needed
  • Flexible participation
  • Office hours follow-up
  • Reasonable extensions

Stay within your role
You are not expected to be a counselor — connect students to resources.

Student Campus Resources

Counseling and Mental Health Center
Short-term counseling, groups, psychiatry and well-being resources.

CMHC 24/7 Crisis Line
Immediate, confidential support for students in crisis. Call 512-471-2255.

Counselors in Academic Residence (CARE)
Embedded licensed mental health professionals providing student mental health support.

Longhorn Wellness Center
Contributing to the culture of well-being at UT Austin by providing evidence-informed health promotion, resources, skills and support that are responsive to the needs of our community. Focus areas include sleep, mindfulness, bystander intervention, mental health promotion and more.

TimelyCare
Free, virtual mental health support available 24/7 or by appointment. Providers offer care in 240+ languages.

Student Outreach and Support (SOS)
Provides support for students experiencing distress or crisis, including help navigating academic, personal and emergency situations.

Take Care of Yourself

Supporting students can be emotionally demanding. Take care of your own well-being.

  • Keep your messaging simple and supportive
  • Set boundaries and pause conversations if needed
  • Take breaks and check in with yourself
  • Use available resources for support

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Free, confidential mental health support for faculty and staff

Also see EAP’s resources on teaching after tragedy, communicating with care and supporting students

Thank you for supporting UT students with care and compassion.