Suicide a Major Problem on College Campuses

The issue of suicide is a major problem on college campuses, but there are plenty of prevention tips that people can use to ensure that they, their friends, and loved ones don't do the unthinkable and end their life.

The JED Foundation, whose goal is to protect the emotional health of America's college students, has a fact on its website that mentions one in 10 students has considered suicide during their time in college.

That's astonishing, but people should take comfort in knowing that there's help available and plenty of alternatives to an extreme approach like suicide.

Depression can hit anyone and last for a few days, or even longer, but the question remains: Is it normal to feel like this?

"It's definitely normal to feel depressed, down, or to even have suicidal thoughts, especially for college students. These thoughts just mean they need support or help," said Elisa Castillo, assistant director of the Salem State University Counseling and Health Services.

Another thing that roommates, friends, and even professors should look for in someone who has been down or not their usual self are the warning signs.

"Some warning signs include changes in eating and sleeping habits. Talking about suicide, feeling miserable, or no longer having an interest in social interaction are signs too.

"NEVER take suicide discussions lightly, and NEVER ignore them," said Janet Todaro Stubbs, professor of psychology at Salem State.

The JED Foundation also lists additional warning signs that include when a person feels trapped and has no way out, or that the person has no purpose in life.

Uncontrolled anger, moodiness, rage, or seeking revenge on someone are signs too.

Get help for an individual who has increased his or her alcohol consumption, and is easily agitated.

According to the SSU Counseling and Health Services website, one of the first prevention methods after identifying some warning signs is to not panic and remain calm.

Listen to what he or she has to say, and take it seriously.

Don't forget to voice concerns, but at the same time don't argue or debate moral issues as it might infuriate them more, and don't be surprised at what comes out of their mouth either.

Overall, the best remedy for a down person is talking and comforting.

Another method is to let the person know you care, and never agree to confidentiality.

Don't try to make things perfect, but instead offer hope and compassion.

If the problem is serious, get professional help immediately.

Some people might take these warning signs and cries for help as a way to get attention, but that's far from the truth.

There might be a serious issue, and if it isn't addressed, then the situation could become fatal.

"One common myth that's out there is that people who talk about suicide are more likely to harm themselves. That's completely false. Another major myth, is just because someone is getting good grades and is outgoing, it doesn't mean they're suffering internally. Talk to people and let them know you're there," Castillo said.

Castillo also had plenty of advice for students who feel down and depressed.

"It's very important to have a good balance in your life which includes school, and enjoying the good things in life such as hanging out with friends, or even exercising. If you figure out to balance everything, than you'll feel better about yourself," she said.

The main thing Castillo hit on is that students should connect with each other, especially with people they trust, and can talk too such as a student, parent, instructor, and even a resident assistant.

They also shouldn't feel embarrassed to talk to a psychologist or counselor about the thoughts they've been having.

In fact, Castillo welcomes students with open arms to visit the Counseling and Health Services clinic, which is located right outside the commuter lounge in the Ellison Campus Center.

"The clinic is opened year round, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., (hours may change in the summer, and it is closed during Christmas break) and is available to all enrolled students.

"We not only do counseling, but we do evaluations, and can refer a student to an off campus psychologist if they prefer. The main thing is if someone does feel depressed or even stressed, come on in and make an appointment," Castillo said.

For some reason, if students can't get down to the clinic, they should visit the SSU Counseling and Health Services website at www.salemstate.edu/chs for more information.

If the situation is an emergency, they should dial 911.

"Remember: if the stress lasts for more than two weeks, come down and make an appointment to talk to one of our psychologists. It'll be worthwhile," Castillo said.