Written For The Argo by Jakub Suchojad

The effects of prolonged lockdown periods and the transition to online learning and constant worry about close ones’ well-being create a heavy burden, especially as the most stressful time of the semester approaches.

Suicide rates among young people are skyrocketing, and we all have to do our part and look out for one another. It is important to know what the potential red flags are and how to react. 

National Institute of Mental Health points out that changes in behavior like increased alcohol consumption, extreme mood swings, and social withdrawal should attract our attention. Feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, sadness, anxiety, and even rage can manifest deep emotional troubles that might require some sort of intervention.

Even just a healthy dose of empathy and care can be beneficial in a situation like this. Suppose you are unsure how to bring it up. In that case, you can always call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or message the Crisis Text Line at 741741 (text HELLO).

Stockton University students have plenty of options when it comes to staying engaged and active during the pandemic. “Active Minds is a national organization that aims to destigmatize mental health. The ways we do this is through events that promote education, resiliency, and diversity,” says Morgan Pfau, the Co-President of the Stockton chapter.

“This semester Active Minds hosted events such as “Being LGBTQ+ and Mental Health” and “Black Mental Health Matters”.

“Our last Fall event is going to be held on December 3 and it will focus on “Mental Health Around the Holidays,” said Pfau. 

Any students interested in Active Minds should email activeminds.rsc@gmail.com and join the mailing list.

The university itself has a Suicide Prevention Team that is a part of the Wellness Center. All the available resources and information can be found at the following website: https://stockton.edu/wellness-center/suicide-prevention/index.html