National Suicide Prevention Month 2021

September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. This is a time where we can learn about suicide prevention, and focus on taking care of ourselves & others. Our hope is to encourage conversations and spread awareness in an effort to prevent suicide across the JMU campus and beyond.

This month take time to learn how you can support our community and be a part of suicide prevention at JMU. Find out more below about the mental health & crisis support resources available. And, don’t forget, take care of your own mental health.

During National Suicide Prevention Week, September 5th-11th, look out for the Counseling Center around campus:

• Monday 9/6
  
  • Reducing the Risk at JMU Workshop, Gabbin G002, 11:00am-12:00pm
  • Tabling Event, First Floor of the SSC, 12:00pm-2:00pm

• Wednesday 9/8
  • NSPW Tabling Event, Festival Patio Table 4, 2:00pm-4:00pm

• Thursday 9/9
  • Reducing the Risk at JMU Workshop, Godwin 341, 4:15pm-5:15pm

• Friday 9/10
  • NSPW Tabling Event, First Floor of the SSC, 10:00am-12:00pm

Explore our Counseling Center's website to learn more about suicide prevention. Including, warning signs someone may be experiencing thoughts of suicide & how you can make a difference in reducing the risk in our community. When you have a concern someone may be considering suicide, we encourage you to show C.A.R.E.

• Communicate you care
• Ask calmly and directly about suicide
• Refer to counseling or emergency services
• Encourage hope for the future

Don’t forget: Research shows that asking someone directly if they are having thoughts of suicide does not put the idea in their head or further push someone to take their lives. Showing your CARE can save lives.

If you ever have immediate concern for someone’s physical safety: off campus - call 911, on campus - call 540-568-6911. If you have concerns for how to support the mental health of a JMU student who is not in immediate danger, please call the CC (540-568-6552) for a consultation.

Learn more about the mental health services & self help resources available by visiting the CC website. Now more than ever it is important to take care of your own mental health while supporting others.

Know what 24/7 emergency services are available at JMU for students experiencing a mental health crisis (e.g. suicidal or homicidal thoughts or actions, sexual assault, or other significant trauma). And, learn about national crisis resources, such as: the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255), Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ Youth (1-866-488-7386), Trans Lifeline (1-877-565-8860), & the Crisis TextLine (text “HOME” to 741741).

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention website offers more information, including: prevention resources, simple actions you can take to help prevent suicide, and how to find a support group. During National Suicide Prevention Week (9/5-9/11) & Suicide Prevention Month, AFSP encourages that Together, we #KeepGoing. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is partnering with SAMHSA to share that you can #BeThe1To Help Save a Life.

You are needed, please take the time to support your own mental health and our community.

 You are never alone. Dukes are here for one another.