Category: Health & Wellness

I imagine that would be traumatizing, but section 12 is used only in cases where the alternative might lead to the harm of self or others, which could likely ultimately be more traumatizing than being sent involuntarily for care. I have assurances that my assistants are working diligently on getting answers to these questions. I am grateful for your patience.

I will have my assistants find out which office you need to talk to for this information.

Update from the Dean of Students office: “No, a student cannot be required to go on a leave of absence just for a suicide attempt. The university does, however, have an Involuntary Leave of Absence Policy (bit.ly/BC-inv-LOA) that can be applied in extreme/rare circumstances, e.g. in situations where a student demonstrates behavior that poses a threat to health or safety or is significantly disruptive to the University learning environment. Even when used, this policy requires an individualized assessment of the situation and every attempt would be made to find solutions that are not mandated leaves. Over the last few years, this policy has been applied only a couple of times. If you would like to talk with someone more about this policy, please contact Caroline Davis, Associate Dean for Student Outreach & Support at caroline.davis.2@bc.edu, 617-552-3470 or by stopping by 448 Maloney Hall to schedule an appointment.”

“Best” hospital could be defined in any number of ways. There are many hospitals in the area that are among the best in the country by a variety of measures: Mass General, Beth Israel, Brigham & Women’s, Children’s, & Tufts are all national leaders. I will have my assistants look into whether there is data available on the most common destinations for BC students. (Keep in mind, though, that decision is up to the student if they are conscious.)

Spring semester always seems to be rougher on humans than fall. With fall you have all the energy saved up from the summer, but spring semester starts suddenly and it tends to be cold and snowy, and that makes everything a little more physically challenging, too. Take care of yourself. Get lots of rest. Try and stay cozy and warm.

It has always been thus. Actually, it’s not as cold as it once was. The “Little Ice Age” that bedeviled Europe & North America for several hundred years ended at about the onset of the 20th Century. Colonial era Boston was much colder than now. For warmth, I recommend the hot chocolate at El Pelon and a scarf and hat.