During National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month each September, it is a time to remember those lives lost to suicide, acknowledge those who are struggling, and help them find hope and support. It is also a time where we can offer extra support to those members of our communities who have been impacted by suicide.
As we work to support and care for each other during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and throughout the entire year, an important step is for all Hawkeyes to know how to get help.
What to do when you are concerned about others:
- Ask if they are OK, reassure them, and let them know you are there to listen.
- “Are you OK? I’ve noticed you’ve not been yourself lately and I’m concerned.”
- “I’m so glad you’re telling me about how you have been feeling. I’m here to listen.”
- Show your support in the moment.
- “I’m right here with you”
- “I’m here to support you in this process. We’ll get through this together.”
- Encourage them to keep talking.
- “That sounds so difficult. Can you tell me more about how you are feeling?”
- “I’m starting to understand why you are struggling. Can you tell me more so I can know best how to help you?”
- Help them get connected with professional help.
- “I really think that talking to someone and getting another perspective might help. I know of some resources that are available. Let me tell you about them.”
- “I hear that you’re struggling, and I think counseling might help you. They have counseling services on campus. I can sit with you to support you while you call for an appointment.”
- Offer your continued support.
- “I’m here to support you as you go through this process.”
- “You matter to me, and you matter on this campus. Let’s get lunch tomorrow so we can stay connected.”
Where to seek support when you need care:
- University Counseling Service: Primary mental health resource on campus, offering free, short-term, and confidential mental health counseling services to all UI students. UCS also has a new online Community Provider Database available for those seeking private longer-term mental health care providers in the community.
- Student Care and Assistance: Supports all UI students to overcome challenges to be successful and continue towards graduation and can assist in managing crisis situations.
- Student Health: Delivers quality healthcare to all UI students from providers in family medicine, gynecology, and psychiatry services.
- Employee Assistance Program: Confidential, short-term counseling and referral service for UI faculty and staff.
Crisis Resources:
- UI Support and Crisis Line: Free, 24/7/365 crisis support via call, text, or online chat.
- 988 Lifeline: National 24/7/365 suicide prevention resource via call, text, or online chat.
- GuideLink Center: Open 24/7 and offers onsite assessment and crisis stabilization for those experiencing mental health and/or substance use crises.
- Mobile Crisis: Dispatches mental health counselors to your location in Johnson or Iowa County.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room nearest to you.
University of Iowa Suicide Prevention Coalition
The University of Iowa is committed to prioritizing mental health and making mental health services accessible to our campus communities. The University of Iowa Suicide Prevention Coalition meets monthly to implement a strategic plan focused on conducting research, offering trainings on how to assist others in crisis, implementing prevention programs, expanding mental health interventions, and caring for individuals and communities post suicide. Led by staff from University Counseling Service, the coalition is comprised of faculty and staff from key campus departments that support students’ mental health, physical health, wellness, and safety. Representatives from the Undergraduate Student Government and Graduate and Professional Student Government also hold membership on the coalition and offer unique and necessary student perspectives on programs.