Red Folder

Red Folder for Students

Helping Yourself or a Friend

You Don't Have to Handle It Alone

College comes with many experiences—new opportunities, relationships, responsibilities, financial pressures, academic demands, family responsibilities, and unexpected challenges. Sometimes you may notice that you or someone you know is struggling.

You do not need to have all the answers. You do not need to be a counselor. And you do not need to wait until something becomes a crisis before asking for help. The Foothill College Student Red Folder is here to help you.

Recognize. Connect. Support. Report.

Whether you are concerned about yourself, a friend, classmate, teammate, or another member of our community, there are people at Foothill ready to help.

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Is Someone in Immediate Danger?

When in doubt, reach out. Mental Health & Wellness Center: 650.949.7910 Student Affairs: 650.949.7241 Campus Police Non-Emergency: 650.949.7313 Emergency from a cell phone on campus: 408.924.8000 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988

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Recognize When Someone May Need Support

There is no single sign that tells you someone is struggling. Pay attention to changes, patterns, and what the person tells you.

One sign alone may not mean someone is in crisis. But if something concerns you, it is okay to check in.

How to Check In With a Friend

You do not need special training to show someone you care.

Start the Conversation

Find a private, comfortable place when possible.

You might say:

• “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. How are you doing?”
• “You mentioned that things have been really difficult. I wanted to check on you.”
• “I’m worried about you. Do you want to talk?”
• “You don’t have to figure this out alone. Can we connect you with someone who can help?”

Listen Without Trying to Fix Everything

Sometimes the most meaningful thing you can do is listen.

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If Someone Talks About Suicide or Self-Harm

Take statements about suicide or self-harm seriously. It is okay to ask directly: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” or “Are you thinking about suicide?” Asking directly does not create suicidal thoughts. It can open the door for someone to tell you what they are experiencing. If the person tells you they are in immediate danger, have a plan to hurt themselves, have already injured themselves, or you believe they cannot stay safe: Get emergency help immediately. Do not leave the person alone if you can safely remain with them while help is being contacted. For crisis support, call or text 988.

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It’s Okay to Tell Someone

Helping a friend does not mean keeping everything secret.

If someone tells you something that makes you concerned about their safety or another person’s safety, tell someone who can help. You can contact:

• Mental Health & Wellness Center
• Student Affairs
• A counselor
• A trusted faculty or staff member
• Campus Police
• Emergency services when necessary

You can also submit a Student of Concern/Incident Report to Student Affairs.

Reporting a concern is not about getting someone in trouble. It is a way to connect someone with support. You do not have to determine what intervention is needed. Share what you know, and the appropriate Foothill staff can help determine next steps.

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Concerned About Yourself?

This Red Folder is for you, too. You do not have to wait until you are in crisis to reach out. You may want support if you are dealing with:

Whatever you are carrying, you deserve support.

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Community Crisis Resources

Foothill Resources

Experiencing Harassment, Discrimination, Sexual Misconduct, or Violence?

You deserve to learn in an environment where you feel safe and respected.

Foothill has support and reporting options for students who experience:

You can speak with Student Affairs about your options without having to figure out the process on your own.

Report Bias, Hate, Harassment, or Other Concerns

Worried About a Friend? Remember C.A.R.E. C—Check In Notice changes and ask how they are doing. A—Ask & Listen Listen without judgment and ask directly about safety when necessary. R—Reach Out Connect the person with Foothill or community resources. E—Escalate When Needed If someone’s immediate safety is at risk, contact emergency services. You can care deeply about someone without carrying their situation alone.

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One Caring Person Can Make a Difference

You do not need the perfect words.

You do not need to know exactly what to do.

Sometimes helping begins with something as simple as:

“I noticed.”

“I care about you.”

“I’m here.”

“Let’s find someone who can help.”

At Foothill College, looking out for one another is part of creating a community where everyone can learn, belong, and thrive.

Why We Use Red Folder By acting sooner rather than later, we can create a culture of care and ensure that students at Foothill College have the resources and support they need to succeed. DOWNLOAD RED FOLDER flyer DOWNLOAD Distressed vs Disruptive Students flyer DOWNLOAD Know Your Nine flyer DOWNLOAD Foothill College ICE Protocol Note: These files are available only to Foothill De Anza Community College District faculty and staff. Please sign in with your District credentials to view or download files.