Student Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Plan

Additional Resources

• Warning Signs

  Having a hard time but not sure whether counseling is the support you need at the moment? Visit the CSDC’s Self-Help Resources page, which includes online anonymous screenings, smart-device applications, websites, and other relaxation and mindfulness-based resources. Or give us a call (570-577-1604) to discuss how we can best help you.

  Worried about someone? Our friends and students don't always hold up a sign that says, "HELP! I'm in trouble!" Still, there are some common indications that a student may be experiencing significant emotional distress. Signs that a person is at risk of suicide may be a change of behaviors, especially if the behaviors are related to a recent painful event, loss or change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do.

  If a person talks about:

  • Killing themselves
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Having no reason to live
  • Being a burden to others
  • Feeling trapped
  • Unbearable pain

  Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change:

  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs
  • Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods
  • Withdrawing from activities
  • Isolating from family and friends
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Aggression
  • Fatigue

  People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of interest
  • Irritability
  • Humiliation/shame
  • Agitation/anger
  • Relief/sudden improvement

  In the meantime, remember:

  • Listening to and putting yourself in the shoes of the friend about whom you are concerned can help them feel understood and cared about.
  • If you want to explain to a friend why you are concerned, be as specific as you can. Being direct is also advisable; attempting to deceive or trick someone into getting help is unwise.
  • Change often happens in stages. When you encourage a friend to go to counseling, you plant a seed for change that may not take hold right away. Keep in mind that when you suggest counseling to a friend they may not be ready to take in this suggestion, and might even be offended or disregard it. If this happens, it can be helpful to remind your friend that you're there for them if they need help. Sometimes people aren't ready to accept help right away but will remember that you’re available for support when they’re ready.
  • If you feel that getting someone to help is essential, you may consult with a counselor at the Counseling & Student Development Center.

  Learn more about making a referral

   

   

• Communication with the Campus

  Within the first month of the fall and spring semesters, all students will receive an email from the University President or the Dean of Students with information about mental health support resources. 

  In the event of a confirmed suicide of a student, faculty member, or staff member, the University will make support services readily available and will communicate directly with students, faculty, and staff. The Dean of Students Office will work in conjunction with the university’s Communications office to share information to the extent possible. 

   

• Need more?

  The Counseling and Student Development Center works with students, staff, and faculty throughout the year to provide support and training on how to identify and support students in distress. Please contact the CSDC (570-577-1604) if you are interested in learning more about how we might partner to create a suicide-safer community. Thank you for your efforts to help build a kind, caring, compassionate community at Bucknell!

   

• Additional Resources for Employees

  For staff and faculty affected by mental health concerns, the EAP+Work/Life program is a comprehensive program available to benefits-eligible faculty and staff. The EAP+Work/Life program provides a Licensed Professional Counselor to listen and:

  • Help define the problem clearly
  • Assess the type of help needed
  • Either provide the required help or make the most appropriate, cost-effective referral for you

  Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Work/Life Specialists can assist with . . .

  • Stress, depression and anxiety
  • Marital relationships and family/parenting issues
  • Work conflicts
  • Legal and financial issues
  • Time management
  • Parenting and adoption
  • Anger, grief and loss
  • Substance abuse
  • Eldercare and childcare

  For more information, log into myBucknell - BenefitsU and click on the EAP & Health Advocacy tab.