September is National Suicide Prevention Month. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-24. Contrary to popular belief, asking the question does not put the idea into someone’s head. It is important to have regular conversations with your student about their well-being in order to offer support and reduce any stigma or shame around seeking help. Suicide is preventable.
The Ohio State University lists several warning signs for individuals who may be suicidal. If your student is in need of urgent mental health support, please contact local resource HelpLine (available 24/7 via phone at 740-369-3316 or text “helpline” to 898211), the national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7 via phone or text at 988), or Uwill’s 24/7 phone support (1-833-646-1526). In the event of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room (not Urgent Care).
Otherwise, if your student is in need of mental health support or services, they are welcome to visit OWU Counseling Services in R.W. Corns 316 to discuss next steps. We are also available at 740-368-3145 or counselingservices@owu.edu. Another option is free ongoing virtual counseling or as-needed 24/7 phone support (1-833-646-1526) through Uwill.
If your family has been impacted by suicide, consider exploring the following resources:
OWU Sponsoring Organization/Office: OWU Counseling Services
Contact: Leana Froehlich-Terry at counselingservices@owu.edu