The VMBS family takes care of each other.
Hopefully, you never need to use the following resources. However, here’s what to do if someone is experiencing a mental health crisis.
When is it a 911 call?
If someone is imminently about to hurt themselves—or has already—call 911 immediately. This can include taking pills, using a weapon, threatening harm, etc. Seconds count, and trying to arrange care through the VMBS-Embedded Counselors, Dean’s Office, or anyone other than the police and/or EMS may cost a life. Officers are not acting in a punitive manner during mental health emergencies. They are trained to assist someone in danger and safely transport them to an emergency room.
Alternatively, if you are not with the person, call 911 and request a “welfare check.” This terminology alerts the police to assess someone’s safety and provide help if needed.
Calling 911 may be uncomfortable, but it is the required step to help someone. Please don’t delay.
When is it an urgent call?
If someone’s life is not immediately in danger, but they need urgent assistance because of suicidal thoughts, an inability to cope, or a recent traumatic event, the embedded counselors are available during business hours for urgent walk-in crisis appointments. Students can also access walk-in crisis appointments at the UHS Counseling Unit on main campus on the 4th floor of the SSB. Assistance is available and waiting.
During business hours, please call 979.845.4427 for directions to the SSB. It is approximately a 10-minute walk from the VMBS. Upon arrival, let the staff know that you need help with a crisis.
All Texas A&M students can access free, confidential, professional counseling support 24/7/365 via phone or chat via the TELUS Health Student Support App.
When is it a regular referral?
If a veterinary student, intern, or resident is struggling, but they are not in danger, please let the DVM Professional Program Office know your concerns. They can check in with the person and connect them to counseling services if needed. You can also complete a Tell Somebody Report online at tellsomebody.tamu.edu for non-emergencies. The form will route to people who can assist.
If you are a veterinary student, intern, or resident and are struggling and would like to schedule an initial appointment, please register for counseling services online at the UHS website, or email the VMBS-Embedded Counselors to request an appointment, vetcounselor@tamu.edu.