September Is National Suicide Prevention Month.
Joining the movement can bring awareness to an issue that takes thousands of lives each year from our beloved communities. To the ones that are currently fighting silent battles against their own mind, and acknowledging the loved ones who have been personally impacted by suicide.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, 49,000 people lost their lives at the hands of suicide in 2022 alone. That is one death per 11 minutes, 130 deaths per day.
As a campus it should be our goal to provide for students, staff, and members of our communities to seek help in moments where they are struggling with their mental health.
Common warning signs of suicidal thoughts include feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or worthlessness, change in appetite and sleep schedules, insomnia, social withdrawals, reckless behavior or taking increasingly high-risk behaviors, and openly talking about suicide.
The California Department of Health Care services (DHCS) have provided a free, safe, and confidential mental health support platform for people throughout the state. These services can be provided through the app Soluna.
Additionally check up on your loved ones. It’s important to know that one simple conversation can help make a difference. When coming across someone who is feeling suicidal listen to the person without judgement and reassure them that they are not alone.
Overall, suicide is the number one leading cause of death in the United States. Know that if you are struggling or know someone that is struggling. You are not alone. It’s okay to ask for help. There are people who care about you and want to support you. There are resources available to guide you through this difficult period.
If you or someone you know is experiencing or struggling mentally, seek help immediately. Contact Student Health and Wellness Center for mental health services at [email protected] or (661) 395-4336. Or visit the website Bakersfieldcollege.edu for more resources. (https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/campus-life/college-safety/help-someone-in-distress.html)
In addition to campus resources there are national hotlines and crisis text lines available to you 24/7 such as 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988. Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741.