Educate Yourself During Suicide Prevention Month This Year

Almost 13 young adults per 100,000 die by suicide every year. That is a large portion of the collegiate community, and we have the resources here at NC State to help prevent suicide. September is Suicide Prevention Month and organizations across the country and at NC State are working to provide more awareness that suicide is something that is preventable.

NC State is among 39 universities that were awarded Garrett Lee Smith Campus suicide prevention funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. This funding has since helped develop prevention programs that work create a culture that encourages outreach and a long-term reduction in completed suicides and suicide attempts. There are two workshops available on campus for prevention training. A study conducted by the non-profit Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, showed that between 80 percent to 90 percent of those who seek treatment for depression are treated successfully, which is why we should encourage those with suicidal thoughts to seek help. To get involved with these programs click here.

Suicide is something that affects cultures, communities, and families. It is the fourth leading cause of death for adults ages 18 to 64. As a community, we should work together to educate the public on mental illness and eliminate the stigma that those who are depressed have control over how they feel. Depression is far more than just being sad. People who suffer from depression cannot just snap out of it; most cases have to be professionally treated with either medication or counseling. It is so important that we as a society understand what depression is and how it affects not only people who suffer from it but also the people that love and care about them.

If you or anyone you know has suicidal thoughts, please contact NC State’s counseling center. All NC State students can go to the counseling center free of charge. There is always a counselor on call after hours. Suicide is permanent, and it is important to know that there is always someone you can talk to who is willing to listen.

While this month may be Suicide Prevention Month, we should work to improve our knowledge of depression and suicide every day of the year as well as learn what you can do to help encourage those who need help to seek it.