By The Signal Editorial Board
Content warning: Mention of suicide
September is suicide prevention month. It also falls at the beginning of a new academic year, which can be a stressful time for many students.
As the semester progresses, college can become somewhat lonely and difficult to navigate. As the workload increases, extracurriculars become more intense and more factors build on stress levels, it can be hard for students to feel a sense of stability. It is crucial, not just during the month of September, to check on your peers.
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for college students in the United States, according to the National Institute of Health.
At the College, mental health resources are actively available both on campus and online for students. Counseling and Prevention Services offers a range of resources and support to help students access the assistance they need. CAPS offers individual counseling, group counseling and workshops, referral and case management services, psychiatric services and alcohol and other drug support services.
CAPS’ resources can be accessed in person in Eickhoff Hall, suite 107, or online. Their website provides additional information about the services available, including current and upcoming workshop programs, a service request form, and self-help resources.
Students who would prefer to receive mental health support virtually can do so through BetterHelp and Uwill. Both of these services offer teletherapy provided by licensed therapists.
As students sharing a campus we should feel united, or at least treat each other with respect. Even something as simple as a smile at a stranger you pass while walking on campus can make a difference to someone. At the end of the day, we all share at least one thing in common: we are all college students who experience the whirlwind of emotions that is young adulthood.
While we will never know what everyone around us is going through, we can take actions to support others.
This suicide prevention month, and even all year long, make an effort be kind to yourself and anyone you encounter.
Mental health resources:
Counseling and Prevention Services (CAPS)
Eickhoff Hall, Suite 107
To access services, click here.
TCNJ Campus Police
Dial 911 from any campus phone or 609-771-2345 from a cell phone.
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call 988
Dean of Students
If you would like to submit a CARE referral for yourself or someone you may know, click here.
