Research Blog #13: Interview

I have interviewed Patricia Woodin-Weaver, Ed.D.

I have learned a lot from my interview with Patricia. During my interview with her, I asked her the following the questions:

-Suicide is something that is quite common now nationwide, especially amongst college students. As a result, colleges/universities have been coming up with ways (i.e. programs, etc.) to reduce the amount of suicides from occuring. Are there any programs in which you have come across that appear to be beneficial?

Patricia has provided me with information regarding the Jed Foundation. The Jed Foundation consists of progams that aim to reduce the rate of suicide as well as emotional distress among college and university students.

-Do you believe when students resort to suicide, that this is mostly due to a lack of assistance provided for them?

Patricia replied by saying, "Within college work, were putting a lot of emphasis on prevention services by educating all the constitutions on the college campus. Were doing training in all these departments in the college community so that they are aware of warning signs and are comfortably encouraging students to get help."


-Why are students at such a heightened risk for suicide? Do you believe professional students such as those of the nursing school are at an even higher risk? And if so, why?

Patricia has provided me with information regarding why students are at such a heightened risk for suicide. One article she gave me states, "Just as the demographics of the current generation of college students have changed considerably from the past, so have their needs, including their mental health needs" (NASPA Journal, Vol. 41, no.1 Fall 2003). "In addition, there has been a marked increase in both the number of students with serious psychological problems on campus and the number of students seeking counseling services" (NASPA Journal, Vol. 41, no. 1 Fall 2003).


-What are some depressive and/or suicidal symptoms amongst college students?

Patricia has provided me with a list of symptoms among distressed students:

Psychological:
-Marked changes in concentration and motivation
-Feelings of intense sadness
-Lack of interest and social isolation
-Crying spells
-Hopelessness
-Suicidal thoughts or statements of intention

Academic:

-Deterioration in quality of work
-Missed assignments or appointments
-Repeated absences from class or not participating in the study or social groups
-The student continually seeks special accomodations (e.g, late papers, extensions on projects, postpones, exams, etc.)
-Essays or projects have themes of hopelessness, social isolation, rage, or despair
-Inappropriate disruption or monopolization of classroom time

Physiological:

-Deterioration in physical presence or hygiene
-Visible increase or decrease in weight
-Visibly and chronically tired or having sleep difficulties (problems falling asleep or getting up from bed)
-Complaining about stomach pains, feeling nauseous, or having headaches
-Shaking or tremors
-Restlessness

http://rhscaps.rutgers.edu/consultation-and-intervention/for-faculty-staff/distressed-students

I chose Patricia since she is a staff psychologist here at Rutgers' Counseling, Alcohol and Other Drug Assistance Program and Psychiatric Services (CAPS). I also chose Patricia because she is extremely educated and motivated towards helping out students here at Rutgers.