CUIMC Office of Well-Being

CUIMC Blue Folder

Guidance and Resources for Helping Colleagues in Distress

Students and staff walking on CUIMC campus.

Message to Faculty, Postdoctoral Trainees, and Staff

Supporting the well-being of our colleagues is a vital component of keeping the University a safe and productive environment. Within our community, we have the opportunity to show care and compassion for colleagues experiencing distress. Colleagues’ distress can present itself in many ways. Here we present some tools to recognize, respond, and refer colleagues appropriately when someone might need help.

Trust Your Instincts

While the Blue Folder is intended to provide guidance about addressing concerns, you may still have questions. If an encounter with a colleague leaves you feeling concerned, alarmed, or threatened, consult with someone. Faculty, postdoctoral trainees, and staff can consult the Resource section regarding any mental health or behavioral concerns. For any immediate safety risk, call Public Safety and notify your supervisor immediately. You can reach CUIMC Public Safety by phone at 212-305-7979 (Emergency Line).

Recognize

Get public safety contact info for immediate risks, and get more information on how to recognize signs of distress like threats, violence, or extreme hopelessness.
A man stressed and upset in his office.

Respond

Responding to distress involves prioritizing safety, engaging colleagues in supportive conversations, and connecting them to resources. Follow up, consult if unsure, and de-escalate when needed.
A doctor consoling a nurse.

Refer and Consult

If you're concerned about a colleague’s well-being, refer them to the right office for support. Resources include Public Safety, CopeColumbia, HR, Faculty Affairs, OPA, and Sexual Violence Response.
A woman consoling a coworker that is upset.

Resources

Discover confidential and non-confidential resources that are available for faculty and staff support.
Two coworkers shaking hands.

Acknowledgments & Contributors

Learn about our partners and contributors at CUIMC and Columbia University who supported us in creating this vital resource to assist colleagues in distress.

CUIMC Blue Folder PDF

View the PDF of the CUIMC Blue Folder guidance and resources for helping colleagues in distress.

View the PDF