September is Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, an opportunity to raise awareness and provide education for students, faculty, and staff. The Counseling Center for Wellness, in collaboration with other NU campus partners, will sponsor numerous events. According to counselor Rose Adamo, Neumann University has adopted the theme “Be There” to help connect with the community.

“As we attempt to break down barriers which include not knowing what to say, feeling we don’t have enough knowledge, or not feeling comfortable with the topic, remember these two words - Be There. We continue to give hope by the gift of being there for one another,” Adamo explained.

September 12: Tabling Event: Handouts will be distributed regarding the events and resources advocating for awareness and education on campus.

September 14: Documentary and Discussion: College students share their stories of having suicidal thoughts and how reaching out has been a source of strength and healing in a documentary called It’s Real. This film, scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in the Student Multipurpose Hall, is offered in collaboration with Athletics, Residence Life, and the Office of Student Engagement and Leadership. Wellness educators will facilitate a discussion following the documentary. 

September 21: Open Mic Night: Set for 7:00 p.m. in the Sora Luna Lounge, this event will give a voice to artists to spread awareness and prevention around suicide and mental health and offer hope through speech, song, and visual art. All students are invited; this event is in collaboration with the NU Art Department and creative writing classes.

September 24: The Suicide Awareness and Prevention 5K walk/run at Ridley Creek State Park. NU is a sponsor of the Delaware County Suicide Awareness and Prevention Task Force event. Dean Stephanie Jones is putting together a Neumann University team (students, faculty, and staff), and the first 50 to apply will be registered at no cost. Email Dean Jones to register for the event. The walk/run starts at 9:00 a.m.

September 28: Suicide Awareness Candlelight Vigil: A tradition on campus that brings together the NU campus and the community in an evening of remembrance. Wellness educators will lead this solemn event at 5:00 p.m. on the Mirenda Center lawn in collaboration with mission and ministry.​​​​​​​

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recently launched a text and call line for a mental health crises. In an effort to transform crisis care in America, Congress designated the new 988 dialing code. This resource will be operated by the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and is available 24/7. Trained crisis counselors will offer help to people experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, mental health crises, or any other kind of emotional distress.