Raising Awareness About Suicide Prevention

Two friends comforting another friend

You are not alone.

Many people experience depression or thoughts of self-harm, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. But it may be a sign that you need to speak to someone to get help and support as soon as possible.

NC State is committed to providing services and resources to help campus community members receive the help they may need — or training to help others.

These initiatives were especially visible this past month as Prevention Services worked in conjunction with various student organizations and offices on campus to raise awareness about Suicide Prevention Month in September. 

On Sept. 10, the NC State Counseling Center hosted the Annual Candlelight Vigil in Harris Field for World Suicide Prevention Day. This event included therapy dogs, resource information, representatives from campus departments and student organizations, professional speakers and the opportunity for students to share their stories and experiences. The Counseling Center also shared their new Stop the Stigma video.

“It’s really comforting when we do things like the suicide vigil and we hear people’s stories about how far they’ve come and how much more of their journey they have, and I’m glad State has created a space where they feel comfortable sharing and just being,” says Elizabeth Dogbe, a third-year civil engineering student and mental health ambassador at NC State.

The next event, Fresh Check Day, was hosted by NC State Wellness and Recreation and was a mental health fair that provided food, fun and giveaways while also informing students about resources available on campus and the importance of mental health.

One of the most well-known resources on campus is the NC State Counseling Center. “I really appreciate the work the counseling center does to make people feel like they’re not alone and they can ask for whatever they need,” says Dogbe.

In addition to seeking support from the counseling center and our other centers on campus, faculty, staff and students can receive training through an empirically-grounded suicide prevention program offered through the Counseling Center. This training, known as Question, Persuade and Respond, focuses on getting a distressed student or friend connected with additional supported or referred for professional help.

You never know when you may be called on to help someone. It’s worthwhile to learn more and be ready to assist.

Jenna Nabors is a third-year student majoring in communication and international studies and is a Park Scholar. Share your thoughts about this article on Twitter at @NCStateOIED.