Behavior Intervention Team
Every member of the San Jacinto College community plays an essential role in supporting the well-being of others. We all may notice individuals navigating academic, personal, or medical challenges. Whether it’s a drop in performance, relationship difficulties, or visible signs of stress, these changes can signal a need for support. That’s when the Behavioral Intervention Team can step in to help.
Our Goals
Establishing
a system of sharing information across departments to identify individuals exhibiting concerning behaviors who may need support or may pose a threat to an individual or the campus community.
Developing
and promoting an online referral form that allows community members to easily share concerns about individuals with the Behavior Intervention Team.
Creating
an annual training for the San Jac community (faculty, staff, and students) on recognizing and referring concerning behaviors to the Behavior Intervention Team.
Meeting
regularly to assess and review concerning information about at-risk community members and develop plans to assist them.
Providing
ongoing support to community members and, when needed, further assessment to appropriately respond to potential threats of harm to self or others.
Start the Conversation
Expressing general concern
Sometimes, subtle mood, energy, or behavior changes can be the first signs that someone is struggling. Addressing these with care can open the door for a broader conversation.
Noticing changes in performance or engagement
Academic performance is often impacted when someone is experiencing personal, emotional or basic needs challenges. Acknowledging this can give the individual an opportunity to share what they’re going through.
Encouraging openness
Offering a safe space for someone to express themselves is key. Let them know that it's okay to share their thoughts, and you’re available to listen.
Offering support
Your willingness to offer help can be the bridge between someone feeling alone and someone seeking support. Show them that you’re available, and it’s okay to ask for help.
Normalizing their experience
Many people may hesitate to speak about their mental health because they feel their experiences are unique or unusual. By normalizing these experiences, you help reduce the stigma.
Approach the person with empathy, letting them know your concern comes from a place
of care rather than judgment. If they choose to open up, be an active listener. Sometimes, just listening can be
more helpful than offering advice. Some people may not feel ready to share or may choose not to disclose everything.
Respect their boundaries and reassure them that you’re there whenever they feel comfortable
opening up. If they express that they need help, be prepared to make a referral to the BIT. Let
them know the BIT is there to offer support and connect them to the appropriate resources.Tips for Approaching the Conversation
Be Compassionate and Nonjudgmental
Listen More Than You Speak
Respect Their Privacy
Know Where to Guide Them
Report a concern
If you're unsure of how to proceed after the conversation, remember that San Jacinto College’s Behavioral Intervention Team is here to help. You can report your concerns by filling out this form or emailing BIT@sjcd.edu. The BIT is here to support you in your efforts to help community members in need.
Putting together the puzzle pieces
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