Lesson Plan
Spotting Crisis Lesson Plan
Staff will understand the underlying factors driving the college mental health crisis, learn to recognize early warning signs in students, and practice supportive intervention strategies.
College mental health challenges are rising and often go unnoticed until crises emerge. Equipping staff with root-cause insights and spotting techniques enables early support, reduces escalation, and fosters a healthier campus environment.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Preparation
15 minutes
Step 1
Introduction & Objectives
5 minutes
Step 2
Presentation on Root Causes
15 minutes
Step 3
Guided Group Discussion
10 minutes
Step 4
Hands-On Scenario Activity
15 minutes
Step 5
Wrap-Up & Next Steps
15 minutes
Slide Deck
Spotting Crisis: Understanding & Addressing College Mental Health
Learning Objectives
College Mental Health Crisis Snapshot
Trend #1: Academic Pressure
Trend #2: Social Isolation
Trend #3: Financial Stress
Contributing Factors
Pandemic Aftereffects
Summary of Root Causes
Case Example: "Alex"
Warning Signs in Students
Supportive Intervention Strategies
Referral Pathways
Discussion Prompts
Scenario Activity Instructions
Key Takeaways & Next Steps
Resources & Contacts
Thank You • Q&A
Discussion
Activity
Script
