September is Suicide Prevention Month and would like to invite the CU Community to learn and spread the word about how everyone can make a difference when it comes to suicide prevention.
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"Suicide is the second leading cause of death for college students," said Dina Kriakova, a psychologist at CAPS. "College students face pressures from many competing demands -- academics, work, family, friends -- and some can start to feel overwhelmed and depressed without resources or support to manage these stressors."
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With that in mind, student volunteers and staff from CAPS created the video "."
"The purpose of the video was to increase suicide prevention awareness and to remind students of the many positive things that they can enjoy and look forward to even when everything seems to have gone wrong. We want to offer students hope and give them resources to help them embrace that hope," Kriakova said.
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Members from throughout the CU community participated in the making of the video to let those who might be considering suicide know that there are people who care, and to serve as a reminder that community matters and everyone can make a difference, according to CAPS psychologist Andrea Iglesias.
"I think a lot of students can relate to this video, whether they themselves have struggled with depression or suicide or have known someone who has," said CU senior and CAPS peer educator Erica Rozbruch. "Suicide is an extremely important topic that needs to be recognized, but it is difficult to have an open conversation around this issue. '50 Reasons to Stay' is a video project made by students for students at CU-Boulder; this is our way of letting the community know that you are not alone and that there are other options besides suicide."
During Suicide Prevention Month, CAPS also will provide programs and resources on campus around suicide prevention and wellness including:
- Tuesday, Sept. 10, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., take a quick survey about your mood and get feedback and resources on the spot from a CAPS staff member. Visit the CAPS table at the UMC in front of Baby Doe's for information about suicide prevention and wellness and win prizes.
- Wednesday, Sept. 11, from 12:30-2 p.m. at the main Norlin Library entrance by the Commons desk,听 join the "How to Help a Friend Get-Together: Get Your Tea and Cookies On." Come by for information about how to support a friend in need and hang out for snacks. Also check out the for information on how to help a friend considering suicide and other issues.
- Get involved in the on Sept. 19-23. Check out the website for more information on fun and free events with food and prizes, and how to take the pledge to be alcohol and drug free for 96 hours.
Wellness programs will be happening throughout the month in residence halls, so look for CAPS staff and volunteers and join in on the fun.
"Remember, suicide prevention starts with taking care of ourselves and each other," Iglesias said. "By focusing on wellness, physical and mental health, and a strong connection to our community we can all help build a stronger CU."
Other upcoming programs at CAPS happening during September and throughout the semester include:
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- Tai Chi Mondays 12-1 p.m., C4C S440
- Feel Good Fridays 12:10-12:40 p.m., C4C Abrams Lounge
- Breakaway-Mindful Movement for Stress Release, Sept. 10, 1 p.m., Farrand Field
For more information about CAPS groups and workshops and how to sign up vist the .