According to the American College Health Association (ACHA) the suicide rate among young adults, ages 15-24, has tripled since the 1950s. Suicide is presently the second most common cause of death among college students. Going to college can be a huge reality check for some students, and can become completely overwhelming.
The pressure to be perfect can be a constant weight on young people. Balancing good grades, a job, sports, and a social life can certainly lead to a psychotic break. A recent survey of college counselors concluded that over half of their clients suffer with severe mental issues. “Anxiety and depression are now two of the most common mental health diagnoses among college students,” according to the Center for Collegiate Mental Health at Penn State.
Bucks offers many counselors on campus for students to visit. Kimberly L. Rabago offers a program at Bucks for students to learn about issues related to death. This can help students suffering with pain from loss of a loved one, or even help a friend who is grieving.
Mandy Reilly is a counselor at Bucks. She explains that suicide is an important topic, and awareness about suicidal ideation and prevention need to be spread.
“It could literally save lives! Though the subject of suicide can be difficult for some of us to talk about, I believe it is one of the most life-affirming discussions we can have” Reilly says.
She adds that the more open, vulnerable and honest we can be about it, the more we give others permission to talk about it. Then, the feelings of depression and hopelessness become less stigmatized and people who are feeling that way are more likely to speak up and ask for help. This lets people know they are not alone.
Macy Moors, 19, a communications major at Bucks, said, “College can be a really stressful time for students, and sometimes it becomes all too much. Depression is very real, and awareness needs to be spread about what people can do when they feel suicidal.”
She also talked about how Bucks has great counselors on campus, and students should take full advantage of the resources for them if they have feelings of hopelessness.
Suicide is a very touchy subject, but something that needs to be addressed. The more it is talked about, the more people will feel comfortable coming forward with their own mental issues. Mental illness should be addressed very seriously, and there are many things someone can do if they or someone they know is depressed or suffering with suicidal thoughts. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is: 1-800-273-8255. It is available 24/7, and help save lives.