Active Minds supports World Suicide Prevention Day
Members of the Active Minds at a CUB table in support of National Suicide Awareness Day on September 10. Photo Credit: Active Minds at Gettysburg College
By Annika Jensen, Web Editor
Gettysburg College’s chapter of Active Minds led students in recognizing World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday, September 10, working under the maxim “We’ll see you tomorrow.”
At their CUB table on Thursday and Friday the group handed out blue and purple ribbons to bring awareness to the issue, provided statistics and information about warning signs and treatment, and encouraged students to sign a pledge affirming not to joke about suicide. Active Minds was also present on social media, sharing positive messages and spurring essential conversation about mental health that is often muted by stigma.
“Many of the students were very receptive to our cause; some thanked us for having this day, a couple opened up that they had lost someone to suicide. That being said, there still was a barrier with some people who did not want to take our pledge,” said Bri O’Boyle, a member of the Active Minds executive board.
“Suicide prevention awareness is extremely important on campuses because it is the second highest cause of death for college students,” O’Boyle said. “I really believe that it was a success because we helped spread this message of positivity and hope for other college students who may know someone who is struggling.”
Active Minds will also be recognizing the National Day Without Stigma on October 5 and celebrating Stress Less Week as finals approach. Active Minds club meetings are Mondays at 6 p.m. in Glatfelter Lodge for anyone who is interested in attending.
