From September 8 to 14, Culver-Stockton College hosted a Suicide Prevention Week. This week was all about learning, supporting each other, and creating a safe space to talk about mental health.
Jill Miller, who is the Director of Counseling and Wellness Services here at C-SC, organized the events for the week and explained why it is so important for our school.
“Suicide Prevention Week helps reduce stigma and create a safe space for conversations about mental health,” she said. “The goal was to let students know they are not alone and to highlight resources available.”
What Happened During the Week?
There were three main events during the week: The first was a campaign to promote Ask, Listen, Refer, which is an online training for suicide prevention. Students who completed it had a chance to win a free Kindle.
On Wednesday, there was a table set up in the Gladys Crown Center, where students could learn more about suicide prevention and mental health resources.
The final day was focused on helping students relax and have fun. There were popsicles, and a “Let It Go” station where you could write down your worries and watch them disappear. It was a calm and positive way to end the week.
A Student’s Experience
Senior Marianna Fredricks attended one of the events during the Suicide Prevention Week. She wasn’t planning on going at first, but when she saw the tent outside after class, she got curious.
“My favorite part was writing messages on the sidewalk for people to read,” she said. “I saw people stop, take pictures, and smile. That showed me those words were probably something they needed to hear.” One message that really stuck with her said: “You can do it”. She said it was simple but it stayed in her head all day. She said the event reminded her how important it is to check up on the people around us.
“We live in a generation where it’s cool to be ‘nonchalant’ and act like we don’t care — but honestly, I’m tired of it. Effort and caring is cool!” “If someone crosses your mind, reach out. If you see something beautiful in someone, tell them.” This week was also a personal reminder for her. As someone who experienced mental health battles within her own circle, she said it meant a lot to see the campus come together.
“It’s okay to not be okay. And it’s nice to see people care — to remind ourselves that we’re all new to this, and we’re not alone.” She also shared her opinion about the C-SC mental health services. “I think we need more counselors. Jill does amazing work, but I know she’s busy and can’t always meet right away. Sometimes students need to talk right then, not next week.”
Lastly, to someone who’s struggling, Fredricks advises:“I would remind them their feelings are valid. It’s okay to not be okay — but don’t hold it in for too long. If it’s more than I can help with, I’d tell them to go to someone like Jill and remind them it’s okay to talk about how you feel.”
Help Is Always Available
Jill Miller also shared that support at Culver-Stockton doesn’t stop after this one week. Students can always get free mental health services on campus. She also trains faculty and staff so they know how to help if a student is struggling.
“This semester, we are starting a Self-Kindness Crew and a Pure Advocacy Program,” she said. “These programs will help promote kindness and support around campus.”
Other people on campus – like RAs, RDs and Campus Safety officers – also get trained in suicide prevention. Students are also reminded that they can always call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24/7.
More to Come
Students who want to get more involved can join future events through the Self-Kindness Crew or Pure Advocacy Program. Also, there will be a Student-Athlete Mental Health week coming soon, with more events listed in Wildcats Connect.
