September is Suicide Prevention Month

Sent Sept. 1, 2022

Welcome back, Bobcats!

This time of year is filled with anticipation, excitement, and change. With all the good that comes with new opportunities, sometimes this can create challenges for our mental health. We all struggle at times, and when you do your university has many ways to help.

Our Mental Health and Wellness webpage lists resources on campus to assist students with many issues they are facing. There are tools and services, such as YOU@MSU, WellTrack, Mental Health First Aid, and Wellness Coaching. Physical activity and mental health go hand in hand: The many offerings of ASMSU Recreational Sports and Fitness offer everything from group fitness classes, intramurals to outdoor adventures. There are many additional resources available through the Division of Student Success to support student health and well-being, and I encourage you to explore them.

We know that students might need professional support while at MSU. Student Health Partners has services available for those times when students are struggling or find that they need counseling or medical assistance for mental health concerns. Students can seek out medical care at Medical Services, and free, confidential counseling is available at Counseling & Psychological Services. Students can easily make an appointment by calling those offices at 994-2311 and 994-4531 respectively.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month when we highlight the many training programs offered all year long to increase awareness of warning signs, learn how to refer a friend or fellow student for support, and understand crisis resources. If you are interested in joining one of our trainings, please visit our Suicide Prevention Programming website. Sessions start September 9!

Additionally, our Student Mental Health Faculty Advisory Committee has worked with Counseling & Psychological Services to create MSU Assist to provide our community with a quick guide to help students who may be struggling.

We have our challenges, and it's OK to not be OK. If you're having a hard time, reach out to a friend or one of the many resources for support. Check in on your friends, roommates, and classmates because that's what Bobcats do. If you are concerned about the welfare of another student and it is not an emergency, you can complete a Care Referral and someone from MSU will reach out to the student to offer resources or other support.

If you or a friend are ever in crisis or are thinking of acting on suicidal thoughts, please use the following 24-hour crisis resources: