Each September, Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that mental health matters and that each of us has a role in preventing suicide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college-aged individuals, but prevention is possible when we reduce stigma, raise awareness, and support one another.

Taking care of your own mental health is just as important as your physical health. Ask yourself: Am I withdrawing from others? Has my sleep or motivation changed? Am I relying on unhealthy coping strategies? Recognizing these shifts early can be the first step toward reaching out for support.

Checking in on friends and classmates can also make a real difference. A simple, “How are you doing? You don’t seem like yourself,” opens the door to conversation and connection. You don’t need to have all the answers—listening and encouraging someone to seek help is powerful.

At UW–Whitewater, University Health and Counseling Services (UHCS) offers confidential counseling, crisis support, and wellness programming. Faculty, staff, and students can also participate in Recognize, Respond, Refer (RRR) training on Canvas to learn how to identify signs of distress and connect others to help. Enroll Now:

For Faculty & Staff: https://uwwtw.instructure.com/enroll/A7F946

For Undergraduate Students: https://uwwtw.instructure.com/enroll/P9FDBD

For Graduate Students: https://uwwtw.instructure.com/enroll/39WB3D

Resources: UHCS Counseling (262-472-1305). After-hours, call and press “2” to reach a crisis counselor. Mantra Connect Now: On-demand support from mental health professionals via the Care Hub (mantrahealth.com/whitewater). Video available daily 11am-11pm CT, phone available 24/7. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) is available 24/7.