College is a major transition for young adults and is oftentimes the first experience they have out of their family’s household. This can be overwhelming, and for many, they may deal with new and different mental health struggles that they do not necessarily know how to cope with. Students may feel isolated from friends and family, pressured with their newfound freedom, and stress from the academic demands of their school. Some may be presented with alcohol or drugs for the first time, which may trigger an unknown predisposition to depression or suicidal thoughts.
Suicide among college students has been rapidly rising and is currently the second leading cause of death of adults ages 15-24. Studies indicate that 1 in 5 college students have had thoughts of suicide, with 9% reporting suicide attempts. In response, colleges have tried to counter this uptick by widening mental health services on campus and availability or suicide awareness programs.
Risk factors include
- Major depression or personality disorders
- Substance abuse problems
- Traumatic or stressful life events
- Prior suicide attempts
- Isolation and lack of support
- Impulsiveness
- Lack of coping skills
- Access to a suicide method
Warning signs include
- Mood swings
- Decreased hygiene
- Talking about suicide
- Statements of hopelessness
- Interest in death
- Sudden happy or calm state
- Loss of interest in activities
- Poor academic performance
- Saying goodbyes
- Giving away possessions
- Substance abuse
- Self-harm
- Risky behavior or recklessness
What You Can Do
Friends and family that notice these warning signs can do a lot of things to help. Simply being there for the person can make a difference, but it is important to remember that your support is not a substitution for professional help. Medications and therapy have proven invaluable in treating symptoms that contribute to suicide. The national suicide prevention hotline is available 24/7. You can access it by calling 1(800)273-8255. Continue reading