Be aware of the College Student suicide crisis

College is a time of significant transition. Numerous students are living away from home for the first time and have less access to support from family and friends. Along with increased freedom and independence, students face greater stress from a variety of sources, such as increased academic demands, adjusting to a new environment, and developing a new support system. College also provides an opportunity to experiment with alcohol and other drugs, which may compound problems with mood and increase the risk of a college student suicide crisis.

Numerous students come to college with a prior history of mental health difficulties or treatment. Environmental stressors and a predisposition to experience mental health problems may increase the risk of suicide. In a recent national survey, 16 college students reported being diagnosed with a depressive disorder, numerous within the last time. Over 90 of persons who commit suicide have a diagnosable mental disorder, generally a depressive complaint or substance abuse disorder. Men are especially at risk for complete suicide. College-age men are four to six times more likely to die by suicide than women. Women are two to three times more likely to attempt suicide using nonlethal means than men.

When Should Someone Seek Immediate Assistance?

When they are

• Threatening or talking about wanting to hurt or kill him herself

• Looking for ways to kill him herself by seeking access to firearms or other means

• Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide

How Can I Help Someone Who May be Suicidal?

• Show interest and be supportive.

• Be direct; ask them if they’re considering suicide or have a plan.

• Do not be hypercritical, give advice, or try to talk them out of suicide.

• Do not swear to secretiveness.

• Offer stopgap that druthers are available.

• Do not leave the person alone.

• Take action, remove means, and help them in getting the help they need.

• Inform Residence Life and Housing staff if you live in a residence hall.

• Consult with a counselor as needed.

How Common Is Suicide and Suicidal Feelings Among College Students?

• Suicide is the third leading cause of death 15- 24 time pasts.

• In a recent national survey,10.3 of college students reported that they seriously considered suicide in the past 12 months.

Facts About Suicide

• Most suicidal persons want to live but are unable to see alternatives to their problems.

• Utmost suicidal persons warn of their intentions, but others are ignorant or don’t know how to respond.

• Talking about suicide doesn’t cause someone to be suicidal.

• Just because a person talks about suicide( expresses his/ her passions) doesn’t mean he or she is no longer a threat for suicide.

• Utmost suicide attempts are expressions of extreme torture, not inoffensive flings for attention.

What Are the threat Factors for Suicide?

• Depression and other internal diseases or a substance- abuse complaint

• Stressful life events, in combination with other threat factors similar to depression

• A previous suicide attempt

• Family history of internal complaint, substance abuse, or suicide

• A history of family violence or abuse

• Access to an arm or other lethal means similar to specifics.

What Are Some Warning Signs?

• Deteriorating academic performance

• Depression, dramatic mood changes

• Hopelessness

• obsession with death

• Anxiety or agitation

• Uncontrolled anger or rage

• Engaging in risky activities

• Withdrawing from friends and family

• Neglecting appearance and hygiene

• Increased alcohol or drug use

• Giving away prized possessions

Is Suicide Preventable?

Yes! Specific kinds of psychotherapy have been found to be effective in treating suicide. Medications also effectively treat the symptoms that contribute to suicide, similar to depression and anxiety. Remember, you aren’t alone, and help is available!

Resources for Suicide Prevention:

American Association of Suicidology –  www.suicidology.org

The goal of (AAS) is to understand and prevent suicide.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention –  www.afsp.org

The nation’s leading organization brings together people across communities and backgrounds to understand and prevent suicide and to help heal the pain it causes.

Half Of Us –  http://www.halfofus.com/

Mental health issues are a reality for millions of people. Young people are especially at risk, with half of the college students reporting that they have been stressed to the point where they couldn’t function during the past year. The impact of mental illness is so devastating that suicide is the third leading cause of death among all people ages 15-24.

IMAlive – https://www.imalive.org/

An Online Crisis Network.  The first online network with 100% of its volunteers trained and certified in crisis intervention

National Center for Injury Prevention and Control –  www.cdc.gov/ncipc

CDC’s Injury Center has helped protect people from violence and injury. We are the nation’s leading authority on violence and injury prevention. We research the best ways to prevent violence and injuries, using science to create real-world solutions to keep people safe, healthy, and productive.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline –  www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

No matter what problems you are dealing with, we want to help you find a reason to keep living. By calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255), you’ll be connected to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area anytime, 24/7.

Online Resource for College Mental Health –  www.ulifeline.org/

Provides suicide and depression resources for college students.

Suicide Prevention Resource Center –  www.sprc.org

The nation’s only federally supported resource center devoted to advancing the  National Strategy for Suicide Prevention.

The Jed Foundation –  http://www.jedfoundation.org/

As the nation’s leading organization working to promote emotional health and prevent suicide among college students, The Jed Foundation is protecting students’ mental health across the country.

ULifeline –  http://www.ulifeline.org/

On online resource for college mental health.  Also includes a helpline for those with more serious mental health issues, such as suicidal thoughts, and how to help a friend.

If you or someone you know need immediate assistance, please call any of the local resources listed below:

• The Counseling Center 708.235.7334

• After hours, call the Department of Public Safety at 708.235.4900

• Will County Crisis Line 708.258.3333

• Crisis Text Line, Text Hello to 741741

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Languages: English, Spanish

1 (800) 273-8255

Also read https://www.thebhopalnews.com/kindness-is-free-sprinkle-everywhere/