By Victoria Gill-Gomez
News Editor
In honor of National Suicide Prevention Week, which is from Sept. 6 to 12, Counseling Services teamed up with the Psychology Club to provide the Washington College community a sense of connectedness while being remote.
Thursday, Sept. 10, was World Suicide Prevention Day. To recognize the day, a modestly-sized group of students, faculty, and staff gathered on Zoom for a digital vigil. With opening remarks from Director of Counseling Services Dr. Miranda Altman, the event followed with a moment in remembrance of those who have died by suicide.
“We are very much working as a team more than ever…to try to meet the need, whatever it is for emotional support,” Dr. Altman said.
According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, as of 2018, suicide was the second leading cause of death among 15 -35-year-olds in the United States and the 10th leading cause of death in the country overall.
On average, there are 132 completed suicides per day.
Junior Shaniece Fraser, president of the Psychology Club, said she believes mental health is an important topic, especially on college campuses. However, due to the stigmatization of mental health, people in need are hesitant to seek treatment.
“The more we talk about mental health and suicide, the more others feel comfortable in sharing their stories. This way, we are constantly learning about these topics, and we can better support others. The only way we can have these conversations is if everyone is welcoming and open to learn and listen,” Fraser said.
To reduce the frequency of death by suicide and help those in need, Clinical Counselor Roland Jennings said that we must advocate for proper mental health education.
Counseling Services partnered with “Take 5 to Save Lives” by the National Council for Suicide Prevention. This program is a five-step training session to educate people on the warning signs of suicidal behavior and how to respond appropriately.
“Often people are afraid to be direct and ask if someone they know is suicidal. Research supports that by asking someone if they are suicidal, it does not plant the idea in their head; thus, does not cause them to be suicidal,” Jennings said.
According to Dr. Altman, during the entire month of September, which is Suicide Prevention Month, Counseling Services will continue to try and create more awareness of mental health in general, but suicide prevention in particular by creating digital content relating to other mental health topics sent out to the campus via email.
“There is a need to be talking about what we are seeing and what we are hearing from students, but also to support one another,” Dr. Altman said.
There comes a growing understanding of the need for peer support on campus during this tenuous climate.
“A lot of things are happening right now, I think being respectful of others—without judging them—can create a better environment for everyone,” Fraser said.
If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally, you can make an appointment with Counseling Services by calling 410-778-7261. Operation hours can be found on the WC website.
Additional resources are available at:
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Substance Abuse and Mental Health’s National Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) https://www.take5tosavelives.org/take-5-steps
Featured Photo caption: Dr. Miranda Altman welcomes various members of the Washington College community to the World Suicide Prevention Day Vigil on Zoom. After the moment of silence, Clinical Counselor John Fuller informed attendees of upcoming programs and digital resources Counseling Services will be releasing throughout the semester. Photo by Rebecca Kanaskie.