Suicide Prevention
Suicide. It's tough to talk about, but learning the facts and signs can save a life.
Mental Health Services is spreading the word, as part of a three-year grant-funded project training individuals and groups to recognize those at risk, and intervene if needed.
College students can face serious mental and behavioral health issues, including depression and binge drinking. The challenge for mental health professionals is how to identify and help them; nationwide, fewer than 20% of students who die by suicide are past or current clients of their school’s counseling center.
However, students who do connect with services often benefit significantly. UMass Amherst surveys have shown that over 80% of those who sought mental health care said services helped them stay in school and improve academic performance.
For information and help, call Mental Health Services, 545-2337.
Suicide warning signs
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Suicide myths and facts
- People who talk about suicide won't really do it.
- If a person's going to attempt suicide, nothing's going to stop them.
- People who commit suicide are unwilling to seek help.
- Anyone who attempts suicide must be psychotic or insane.
- Talking about suicide may give someone the idea.
People who talk about suicide won't really do it.
Fact: Almost everyone who attempts suicide has given some clue or warning. Don't ignore suicide statements.
If a person's going to attempt suicide, nothing's going to stop them.
Fact: Most who attempt suicide remain uncertain of the decision until the final moment. Most suicidal people don't wish for death - they wish for the pain to stop.
People who commit suicide are unwilling to seek help.
Fact: Studies show that more than half of suicide victims sought professional help within six months of their death.
Anyone who attempts suicide must be psychotic or insane.
Fact: Most people who commit suicide aren't psychotic, although many are depressed.
Talking about suicide may give someone the idea.
Fact: Talking about suicide doesn't give someone suicidal thoughts - the opposite is true. Bringing up the subject and talking about it is one of the most helpful things you can do. It helps a suicidal person feel understood and shows you understand the suffering the person's experiencing.
