Mental Health Crisis Services and Procedures
A mental health crisis is an emotional or behavioral crisis that warrants same-day attention by a mental health professional. This may include, but is not limited to, significant changes in behavior that are not characteristic of a person, the presence of disruptive symptoms that interfere with the responsibilities of daily living, direct or indirect expressions of the intent to harm self or others, or the experience of a trauma.
During office hours, students may contact the Counseling Center and ask to be scheduled for a crisis appointment. If no one is available or the Counseling Center is closed, the following guidelines apply:
• If a student has attempted suicide, call 911 immediately for assistance.
• If a student is in crisis and no one answers or is available at the Counseling Center, there are several options:
• Call Campus Security for help, who can then call 911 or the CUCC Director.
• Call 911 for assistance.
• Call the assessment coordinator at McFarland Hospital (615-449-0500).
• Call Wilson County Mobile Crisis (800-704-2651).
Regardless of what time of day or night a crisis occurs, if a student is actively suicidal and/or homicidal, 911 should be called immediately so the student can be transported immediately to the emergency room (University Medical Center) or to McFarland Hospital.
For any behavior posing an imminent threat to the person him/herself, behaviors that are threatening to others, behaviors involving weapons, or other intimidating behaviors immediately call 911. Clearly state your name and your exact location on campus. Then call Campus Security to notify them of the situation.
Employees of Cumberland University should never transport a suicidal or homicidal student.