September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to help raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health. For students at WCC, the month is a powerful reminder that you have the ability to help save a life.
College life can be overwhelming. Between academic pressure, financial stress, personal struggles and social changes, it’s not uncommon for students to feel anxious, depressed or alone. Unfortunately, sometimes all of these pressures and stressors can lead to tragic outcomes.
But here's the good news: suicide is preventable, and awareness is the first step toward prevention.
Learn How to Help: QPR Training
One simple and effective tool available is QPR, which stands for Question, Persuade and Refer. Similar to CPR, QPR is an emergency mental health intervention anyone can learn. It teaches you how to recognize the warning signs of suicide, how to offer hope, and how to get help for someone in crisis.
This September, the WCC Personal Counselors are offering free QPR training sessions for students, faculty and staff. In just one hour, you’ll gain skills that could one day could help save a life.
QPR Trainings
- Monday, September 15: 11:30 a.m. in LA 224
- Thursday, September 18: 2 p.m. in LA 224
- Thursday, Sept. 25: 5 p.m. in LA 225
- Tuesday, Oct. 7: 11:30 a.m. in LA 230
Why It Matters
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college-age students.
- Many people who are struggling don’t seek help.
- You don’t need to be a trained mental health counselor to make a difference. Anyone can help save a life.
How to Get Involved
- Attend a QPR training!
- Check in with your friends. Sometimes, a simple “How are you really doing?” opens the door to a life-saving conversation.
- Share resources. Let others know about mental health services available on campus.
- Wear purple and teal this month to show support for suicide prevention and awareness.
You're Not Alone
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Help is available:
- WCC Personal Counseling: 2nd floor of Student Center, 734-677-5223
- 833-WCC-4-YOU (833-922-4968) 24-hour hotline for WCC students
- National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (Call or text, 24/7, confidential)
- Community Mental Health: 24-hour hotline, 734-544-3050