I remembered I have this particular student who is suffering from depression and I have worked out the schedule for him to work at his own pace. He was a bright student before it all happened, just like everyone else. Upon completing his foundation, he began to lose his grips and failing all his modules. He also lost hopes, demotivated, low self-esteem and suicidal too. That was when I drew out the schedule for him after consulting the various interfaces. I spoke to him countless times, more patience in the beginning naturally and starting to lose my cool too when things got a little out of control. I suspect that he needs a friend, someone to talk to and he is seeking that in me. I am willing to do so but I am not trained to handle such case. I do not know what else to say after he repeats the same statements for the 10th time!

After a while, I starting to make our appointments more business like. I did not want to dwell in to his personal problems anymore because I was not able to help. I offered what I can do and that is buying him more time for his submission and etc. I also arrange for counseling sessions for him with his module lecturers explaining to them his condition before sitting for exams again. On one hand, I felt for him and wish I could help him more and be able to get him back on track. On the other hand, I also feel that he is asking for excessive help and taking things for granted. Then another irking feeling tells me that who am I to say? I am not qualify to diagnose him. I cannot be sure that he is taking advantage of the situation and that he is able to help himself! Maybe he does need excessive help!!!

I find it difficult to balance; to know exactly how much to help. I feel guilty of not able to help further and yet I don't think i am capable to bring him back on his feet.

Tell me, what would you do?