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Help is available for emotional struggle: a heartfelt letter

The Commuter

Friday, May 22, 2009

An open letter to our students:

The Counseling Center is seeing an increase of students in crisis this term. We’re seeing stress, anxiety, depression, chemical abuse, cutting and suicidal ideation. These are not uncommon problems that face college students. College can be a time of adventure, and full of exciting and encouraging moments. But it can also be very frustrating, and there may be times when life seems overwhelming.

There are both healthy and unhealthy coping skills that we can turn to for coping with all the stressors of college and of life. Some stress and anxiety is a normal reaction to college, but depression isn’t a normal response. How can you tell the difference?

The Counselors are offering a workshop on Wednesday May 27, at noon in WH 225 entitled, “Am I Depressed, or Just Stressed?” At the workshop you will see videos of real college students with real problems, and how they overcame them. Counselors will be available to discuss the videos, and to offer suggestions on healthy coping skills. They will also share the warning signs that indicate you, or a friend, may be at risk of serious depression or suicide. Depression is a treatable disorder, and you will be given resources to seek help.

I lost my son, Daniel, to suicide. He was 20 years old – a beautiful, intelligent, sensitive young man. On the outside he appeared to being doing well with school, work and life, but internally he struggled. He somehow lost hope for his future. He somehow couldn’t see the love we all had for him… or how much his suicide would affect us… forever. Or that there was any chance of relieving his emotional pain, but there was help available. He just didn’t ask for it.

I urge any of you struggling with these issues to contact any of us counselors, or a trusted friend, teacher, or loved one. Admit you need help.

Remember this Crisis Line number: 1-800-SUICIDE
Please join us on Wednesday, May 27, at noon in WH 225
Be kind to yourself. Where there is help there is hope.
I thank you, and so does your mother!

Lynn Bain
LBCC Counselor – Benton Center

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