September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and this topic sadly hits close to home for many students. During the 2021-2022 school year, a Mayo Clinic survey of 133 U.S. college campuses showed that 44% of students reported feeling depressed and 15% considered taking their own life. It is important to note that there are many reasons why someone may be experiencing thoughts of suicide.
People who find themselves thinking about suicide often experience intense and overwhelming negative feelings and may not see any other solutions at that time. Stress factors for college students typically include heavy workloads, financial struggles, family issues at home, homesickness for students living on campus and loneliness.
CSUDH’s Student Psychological Services will hosted various events from September 11-15 to raise awareness and provide education about suicide prevention. Student Psychological Services offers a range of services to assist students who may be struggling, including one-on-one sessions with a counselor. A Student Psychological Services On-campus counselors may also refer eligible students to psychiatric services.
There are also workshops to help students with depression and anxiety. Support groups are offered to discuss various topics like dating and relationships, loss and grief, or for students affected by immigration laws or status. They also offer live streaming talks, training and digital resources such as the WellTrack app, Toro Wellness Hub and their social media pages.
In order to prevent the tragedy of suicide, it is vital that we recognize the common indicators of suicidal behavior so we may intervene and get the person who is struggling access the help they need.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) has compiled a list of possible warning signs to look out for, including:
• Feeling trapped or hopeless
• Having no reason to live
• Feeling like a burden to others
People considering suicide may also exhibit the following behaviors:
• Withdrawing from activities
• Isolating themselves from family and friends
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Giving away prized possessions
• Aggression
• Fatigue
For students, academic performance may suffer as they withdraw or lose focus from schoolwork. The Jed Foundation adds that there may be noticeable physical changes in those who are struggling with their mental health, including dramatic weight fluctuations or neglecting their appearance and hygiene.
If you are concerned that someone you know may be at risk of suicide, intervention
is key. Listening and being supportive of the person is important to letting them know you care and that their feelings are heard. Always take mentions of depression and suicide seriously.
Student Psychological Services recently posted these five action steps to their Instagram (@torowellness) for assisting someone who may be struggling emotionally:
Ask, “are you thinking of suicide?” – It is recommended to ask directly rather than using general phrases like “harming/ hurting yourself” as that may lead to miscommunication of the issue. The National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) also states that asking directly creates a safe environment to have an open discussion about the topic of suicide for the individual. The ASFP also states to never assume that someone else will help them or reach out.
Keep them safe – The ASFP states to always make sure to remove any weapons, firearms or any items that may be used for lethal means.
Be there – Listen without judgment. Let them know that there are resources available and that there is hope.
Help them connect – Utilize the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 to access a mental health professional.
Stay connected – Always make sure to follow up with the person or escort them to mental health services or an emergency room.
For more information visit the Student Psychological Services website.
Editor’s note: If you or someone you know is in crisis or struggling with mental health, help is available. Text HOME to 741-741, or call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
