How to Refer

The best way to refer is to submit a Concerning Behavior Referral Form online.

Phone consultation is contingent upon availability by BIT staff for non-emergency calls. You can reach the BIT line here: (408) 924-6339. Please note there may be times when the line is not answered due to other campus needs or concerns. If you are unable to connect with someone, please leave a voice message and also submit a Concerning Behavior Form.

Please note: The BIT line is not an emergency line, nor in person classroom response. If you believe an individual is an active threat to themselves or others or in case or emergency please contact UPD immediately at: (408) 924-2222.

Tips when referring:

Submit any relevant documents (emails, homework assignments, screen captures of social media posts)
Give background information. What has made this concerning now compared to their typical behavior?
Please describe observable facts and behaviors. While mental health might be a factor in the behavior of an individual, diagnosis must come from licensed individuals operating in their capacity as health care professionals.
Include what steps/conversations you’ve already taken to address the concern with the individual himself or herself.

What to Refer

If there is an imminent threat to safety (e.g., active violence, weapon use, or suicide attempt in progress), do not contact BIT. Call 911 or UPD immediately.

BIT is not an emergency response team. Referrals to BIT are appropriate for concerning, disruptive, or unusual behaviors that do not require immediate emergency response.

When to call 911/UPD immediately (not BIT):

Violent acts in progress or immediate threats of harm
Active weapon use or credible threat with a weapon
Suicide attempt, active planning with intent, or imminent risk of self-harm
Sexual assault in progress
Medical or life-threatening emergencies

When to refer to BIT (after emergency responders have been contacted if needed):

Mention of suicidal thoughts without immediate intent or plan
Mention of violent acts or weapons (not currently in progress)
Hate crimes or incidents
Extreme emotional distress
Family/domestic concerns
Alcohol or drug misuse
Any situation where you are unsure but feel uneasy ("Should I…?")

Behaviors to look out for:

Sudden, unexplained change in behavior
Extremely disruptive or aggressive behavior
Suicidal thoughts or self-destructive statements without imminent intent or plan
Threats of violence (not imminent but concerning)
Loss of contact with reality / delusional thinking
Disturbing or threatening social media posts or emails

What Happens Next

Our team will consider the information that has been reported, collect any relevant information on the individual, assess the risk/safety of the situation and individual, and determine what the best intervention is for each unique situation.

Sometimes a case manager, other team members, or trusted staff will reach out directly to provide support to the individual. We might ask the reporting party for further information or give them guidance on next steps that could be useful. Please note that we may not always share details of our follow up with the reporting party due to privacy concerns.

Either way, it is a team effort and always aimed at keeping the individual and our campus safe.