Helping faculty and staff in distress: The Orange Folder

The Orange Folder is designed to guide UBC faculty and staff to respond to a person having a mental health crisis or emergency.

Everyone plays an important role in creating healthy and respectful work environments. In your role as a UBC faculty or staff member, you may be the first person to see signs that a colleague is in distress, or they may come to you specifically for help. Use this information to familiarize yourself with common signs of distress and the steps you can take to offer assistance.

For broad mental health resources, please visit Faculty and staff mental health resources.

Banner for the Orange Folder with text "Orange Folder Faculty and Staff Guide

Access the Orange Folder

This printable guide, has been designed for all UBC faculty, staff and leaders who are looking to assist colleagues in distress. The guide includes emergency response information and resources to respond immediately to a mental health crisis.

Download and print the Orange Folder

Orange Folder: Comprehensive version

We have also developed a more comprehensive version of the Orange Folder, with expanded resources and guidance. This 5-page version of the Orange Folder includes additional resources, advice for responding with care, and guidance on the UBC processes and resources available to ensure continued support and aftercare for a colleague after a mental health crisis.

This version is ideal for: front-line staff, managers, and supervisors, and anyone who wants to take a deeper dive into the steps, resources, and guidance recommended to assist a faculty or staff member in distress. 

Download and print the Comprehensive Orange Folder

Need additional support?

Concerned about a student? Learn more about how to assist a student in distress.

In need of support for someone who has experienced sexual assault or other forms of sexual violence? Learn more about UBC’s Sexual Violence and Response (SVPRO) office.

For questions about the Orange Folder, please contact hr.healthwellbeing@ubc.ca (UBC Vancouver) or Amanda Swoboda (UBC Okanagan).

Health & Wellbeing Disclaimer

The wellbeing information on this website is provided as information only and should not serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, or treatment from qualified physicians, mental health care providers, or other health care providers. External resources have been carefully selected but are not produced by UBC and UBC is not responsible for the content nor does UBC endorse products or services mentioned on these sites. Suggested links and resources are intended to educate but not to replace UBC policies, procedures or advice from health professionals.

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