by The Cowl Editor on October 3, 2021
Campus
As we approach the end of September, Suicide Prevention Month, we remember those who have taken their lives, and continue to help others who are currently struggling. This month has been a time to raise awareness and foster discussion on a very stigmatized topic. Suicide and suicidal thoughts are not talked about enough.
In addition to overcoming the stigma, it is important to reassure individuals struggling with mental health issues and those affected by suicide that there are always resources available. Throughout the month of September hundreds of organizations across the country have come together to bring awareness to such a crucial dialogue.
NAMI, National Alliance on Mental Illness, is one of these organizations helping to bring awareness and offer resources to those in need. NAMI and Active Minds, a club here at Providence College, will be leading a walk fundraiser to raise money and help others to learn more about the club and NAMI.
The walk will be on Oct. 24 so if you can, please donate and/or participate to show support for those struggling with mental illness.
PC’s Active Minds also held a Suicide Prevention Vigil on Sept. 21 to remember those lost to suicide and those suffering in silence. Students, faculty, and clergy came together in a beautiful ceremony to light candles and pray.
Mental illness and suicidal thoughts do not discriminate against age, race, gender, or sexual orientation and that is why it is so important to bring awareness to this topic. Resources are abundantly available on our campus and everywhere.
If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255). If you are uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can also text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line. If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.