The hardest task a college president faces is calling parents to break the tragic news that their son or daughter has died.  If alcohol poisoning, a drug overdose, or suicide was the cause of death, family members may be plagued with thoughts of how they may have been able to prevent the tragedy.  They may also turn their criticism against the college administration and bring a lawsuit seeking to hold the institution responsible. 

Most institutions have policies addressing the consumption of alcohol and illegal drugs.  They restrict access to means of suicide such as firearms, high roofs, legal and illegal drugs.  Their disciplinary processes mete out punishment to students who endanger themselves and others.  Good policies and good enforcement can help an institution defend itself when a family sues over a student’s death.

Another element of the defense can be a record of prevention programs.  Screening efforts and counseling services help show that the institution took student mental health issues seriously.  Effective screening and treatment can save lives, prevent problems, and reduce the number of times the president will have to make that most difficult phone call.  When a tragedy does occur, they can also help in court.  Consider screening programs as part of your institution’s risk management efforts. 

Note to Site Coordinators: You may want to share this information with others on campus who are in a position to decide when and how to use the screening program (e.g., Freshman Orientation Coordinator, Dean of Students, Athletic Director, Director of Health Services).