September 9, 2024
September is National Suicide Prevention Month
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration recognizes the entire month of September as National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is a leading cause of death among young adults. It does not discriminate — people of all genders, ages, ethnicities, backgrounds, religious or spiritual traditions, and academic standing can be at risk.
Thrive Navigators is a sponsored student organization under the direction of Lafene Health Center and the Morrison Family Center for Student Well-being. The Navigators are dedicated to bringing awareness to mental health resources on campus as well as reducing the stigma that surrounds mental health.
The Navigators chose "Continuing Your Story" as this year's theme for a week dedicated to suicide prevention and awareness beginning on Sept. 9. The semicolon is a recognized symbol used when an author could have chosen to end their sentence but chose instead to continue their story — the author is you and the sentence is your life.
The Navigators will be collaborating with K-State Student Union Program Council, or UPC, for Palettes on the Plaza, an art expression and well-being workshop, from 5-7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, in Bosco Student Plaza. From 1:30-2:20 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, Jared Estes will share his story at the Staley School of Leadership Town Hall. The Green Bandana Project open training will be held from 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12. Throughout the week, the Navigators will table at various locations with a banner to sign to pledge your commitment to reduce the stigma that surrounds mental health. The banner will be at Palettes on the Plaza on Monday, at the Union from 10 a.m. to noonon Tuesday and Thursday, and at the Green Bandana Project training on Thursday. Check the university events calendar for more information about these events.
On Friday, Sept. 13, the Navigators invite everyone to wear green, the international color and symbol of mental health awareness.
We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. Other resources for students include Lafene Counseling and Psychological Services, or CAPS, and TELUS Health Student Support.