As the winter semester hits full stride, it’s easy to feel the weight of the finish line. Between exams, work and personal responsibilities, navigating "college life" can feel like a heavy load.
A major goal of Counseling Awareness Month is to help reduce mental health stigma. For too long, reaching out for help has been viewed by some as a sign of weakness.
The truth is that seeking counseling is an act of courage and a proactive step toward mental wellness.
Counseling at WCC doesn’t have to be just for "emergencies." Regularly scheduled counseling sessions
can be a powerful tool for developing resilience, managing stress and improving your
focus.
By talking openly about counseling services, we can help reduce the stigma for reaching out for help. No student should have to feel ashamed to ask for the support they need.
BE A LIFELINE
QPR Suicide Gatekeeper Training
In honor of Counseling Awareness Month, and because we believe every member of our campus community can look out for one another, we are offering QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Gatekeeper Training.
Both sessions are free and open to all:
Thursday, April 9: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in LA 243
Monday, April 13: 2-3 p.m. in LA 243
Just as CPR prepares you to save a life during a physical medical emergency, QPR equips you to intervene during a mental health crisis. This evidence-based training teaches you three simple steps:
- Question: How to recognize the warning signs and ask the right questions.
- Persuade: How to offer hope and stay with someone in distress.
- Refer: How to guide them to the professional resources that can help.
You don't need to be a mental health expert to help someone struggling. Sometimes, just knowing how to start a conversation and where to direct someone can be the most critical step.
This training empowers you to be that crucial link, a "gatekeeper" who can open the door to help.
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If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out. There is help and hope.
833-WCC 4 YOU (833-922-4968) is a telephonic counseling service that connects students with a licensed mental health provider, 24/7. The licensed mental health providers are available to assist with numerous concerns including, panic, suicidal thoughts, rumination/worry, referral assistance, and general support. These services are available to you as a student at no additional cost.