“There Is Always Someone Who Wants To Listen”
Kierra Martin
Learn About Our Campus Mental Health Resources
By Jolie West
Each month throughout the year is embossed with remembrance or awareness in relation to a major movement. Last month, September, was national Suicide Prevention/Awareness month. It was initially started as world Suicide Prevention Day, September 10, in 2003. In 2008, the entire month was recognized as time to advocate for mental health awareness. Though we are now well into October, it is important to keep combatting stigmas about mental health and stay aware of campus mental health resources.
Throughout the years, mental health has been stigmatized. Therapy is often seen as taboo, as is talking about depression. Many are secretive about mental health struggles. Some have been raised to believe that “if you have to keep it a secret, you shouldn’t be doing it,” and feel internal guilt or embarrassment that they need help with parts of their life where their needs are not being met. While women in the U.S. report more suicide attempts, rates for committing suicide are higher in men. Since talking about feelings is often considered a weak trait, many boys are taught to withhold their emotions, to “suck it up and be a man,” rather than actually talking through and resolving deeply internalized emotions.
Beginning a new chapter of life with the start of college, stepping into adulthood where learning independence is a main priority, can be stressful. Adding a college class load and a job to this already difficult time has caused many college students to contemplate suicide. Many people may feel that it is not okay to seek help because they “should” be able to do it all on their own, when in reality, it is okay to need help. According to a study from Michigan State University, 1,100 suicides happen on college campuses each year. Suicide is the #2 leading cause of death for college students.
On Sept. 6, our campus recognized Suicide Prevention Month by hosting our annual Fresh Check Day. Fresh Check Day is the signature program of the Jordan Porco Foundation. It is an uplifting mental health promotion and suicide prevention event that includes interactive expo booths, peer-to-peer messaging, support of multiple campus departments and groups, a lively social atmosphere with free food and entertainment, and incentives for participation.
Fresh Check Day aims to create an approachable and hopeful atmosphere where students are encouraged to engage in dialogue about mental health, helping to build a bridge between students and the mental health resources available on campus, in the community, and nationally.
The program’s primary goals are to:
· Increase awareness of mental health resources and services available to students
· Reduce stigma and misconceptions around mental health and suicide that often deter individuals from seeking help
· Empower peers to be gatekeepers by understanding warning signs and knowing what to do if a friend is exhibiting signs of suicide or a mental health concern
· Increase willingness to ask for help if experiencing emotional distress
Some signs of depression to look out for (According to Mayo Health Clinic System):
Feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness
Loss of interest in typical hobbies
Insomnia or sleeping too much
Appetite changes
Fixations on the past or feelings of guilt
Ways to help those who may be struggling:
Talk to the person about the noticed difference
Explain that depression isn’t a flaw in the person, rather a complex condition
Remind them that there are people who want them to be around
Suggest seeking help from a medical professional
Show that you care, and will help in all was possible
There are also many mental health services available on our campus. Through Here4U@USCU, a program by the mental health and wellness services company Christie Campus Wellness, all students have access to the following services:
· A 24/7/365 mental health support line for in-the-moment support from counselors and connections to next steps, regardless of time of day or student location (call 833-434-1217 to reach the 24/7SupportLine)
· No charge telehealth or off campus face-to-face counseling sessions. These are available to students no matter where they are (on or off campus, any state or internationally) and no insurance necessary
· The Wellness Hub which includes articles and videos on mental health and wellness topics including: Mental and Emotional Health, Fitness and Nutrition, Academic Performance, Stress Management, Healthy Relationships and more. (To access the Wellness Hub or download the CampusWell app go to https://www.campuswell.com/get-the-app/)
· Free unlimited access to the Headspace Meditation App (To access your subscription, go to work.headspace.com/uscunion/member-enroll)
MyGroup Student Assistance Program (SAP, www.mygroup.com) is another 24/7 virtual mental health service available for students. You can call their number (800-633-3353) at any time of day to talk with a live person who can help direct you to the help that you need. This also includes up to 3 free counseling sessions with a licensed mental health provider (in person or remote) per issue, for an unlimited number of unique issues.
We also have a dedicated psychological services provider, Jessica Pomerantz, from USC Columbia’s PSC on campus in Union every Tuesday. She also has some remote/virtual availability. This is an unlimited free resource for students, for as often as she has space on her calendar. To schedule an appointment, email her at pomeranj@email.sc.edu.
If there is ever a time where someone is going through depression, remind them that they are not alone. Instead of stigmatizing depression and suicidal thoughts, find a way to be compassionate. Lead those struggling to places that can help.
Uwill (Uwillapp.Uwill.com/register, (833) 646-1526) offers students free immediate access to teletherapy, a direct crisis connection, and wellness programming through its easy to use online platform. Students can create a profile and schedule teletherapy appointments. With this online profile, you can:
· Choose a therapist based on your preferences including availability, issue, gender, language, ethnicity.
· Choose a time that fits your schedule with day, night and weekend availability.
There is always someone who wants to listen. If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988, the line is open 24/7.
