It is a scary word that people don't like to talk about. It is an action that we sometimes cannot process or understand why it happens. However, it is happening and we all need to talk about it.
Suicide is the cause of death for 42,733 Americans per year, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This means that there are about 117 suicides a day, and men are over three times more likely than women to complete an attempt.
This act does not discriminate, as those of every race, gender, ethnicity, geographic location and age experience and struggle with it. Our campus, University of South Florida, is full of diverse people who come from various backgrounds that struggle with different situations. This is why we must all join in and fight it together, as we are surrounded by peers at USF that need us.
This topic is certainly gaining traction here at the university, as the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement, Come Out of the Dark, A Life Worth Living, and the Undergraduate Psychology Association held the 2nd Annual Survivors of Suicide Night this past Wednesday, November 16. It was held in the USF Amphitheater and had a lineup of students who openly shared their stories of how suicide has affected them.
This event was unique because it featured speakers that struggled with it themselves, while some talked about their mother, father, sibling, or friend going through it as well. On top of this, the event included lots of food, original artwork, campus resources and a balloon release at the very end.
According to the event's Facebook page and from the organizers themselves, they say they did this to honor the holiday of International Survivors of Suicide Day, which was on November 19. This holiday encourages people to gather with others to grieve for their losses while finding comfort and hope. Sharing stories of mental illness and suicide is a huge step in healing for many people, so this event was quite meaningful.
There were many students that flowed in and out of the event, stopping by to feel comfort or try and understand how widespread suicide's impact truly is. I attended this event for a mere hour and was moved by every individual who took the stage and those that were around me. Though I have never contemplated suicide or have had anyone close to me think about it either, my understanding and empathy for others grew.
It is so important to listen to those that want to share their stories for the greater good, and to make sure we are there for anyone that needs us. If anybody, an acquaintance or a close family member, approaches you with thoughts of self-harm, suicide or bleak sadness, make sure to listen.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness or suicidal thoughts, there are some resources below that you should never hesitate to use.
Also, if you are interested, there are many organizations on campus that deal with this topic. Check out Come Out of the Dark, A Life Worth Living and more on BullSync.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
