Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
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About
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a critical time dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention, supporting those affected, and fostering a culture of mental health and well-being.
Let's take a look at the facts about suicide and its impact on our community:
- 25% of students at the U report feelings of loneliness regularly (NCHA, 2023)
- In the United States, suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people ages 15-24 (NAMI)
- 1 in 20 U.S. adults have serious thoughts of suicide each year (NAMI)
- Suicide is preventable and you can play an important role (CDC)
Did you know that the Center for Campus Wellness is the host of Mental Health First Aid certification at the University? We also offer workshops like Question, Persuade, and Refer where you can learn about ways to take action to prevent suicide and promote mental health on our campus and beyond.
This Year's Theme
#BeTheDifference
Partners
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Toolkit
2026 Schedule
Let's Stick Together Activity
Informational Tabling Session & "Text a Friend" Activity
Session 1: Thursday, September 10th
Time: 11:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Library Plaza
Description:Learn how to recognize the signs and risk factors for suicide and how simple actions like checking in with your friends can make a big impact!
- Take a sticky note of encouragement
- Write and leave a note for another!
- Encourage students to reach out and check on a friend
- Learn about how checking-in can help prevent suicide
Alongside this creative experience, we’re also providing information on suicide prevention and resources, including 988 bookmarks, to support mental health awareness and offer help to those in need.
Free Campus Rides on the Fast Facts Golf Cart
Jump on the Wellness Golf Cart for a free ride to class and a
chance to win big at trivia!
Round 1: Monday, September 14th
Round 2: Monday, September 21st
Round 3: Monday, September 28th
Location: Keep an eye out for us on campus!
Description:Catch a free ride to class on the Center for Campus Wellness golf cart! During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we're offering students a ride to class and an opportunity to learn about ways to check in, speak up, and reach out.
"Messages of Hope" Chalk Art Festival
Time: September 22nd & 23rd , 11:00am to 2:00pm
Location: Union Patio and Walkway
Description:Come chalk your art and your messages of hope next Tuesday & Wednesday!
Also how cute is @uofuvolley in this graphic made by @uofucounseling . He’ll be there too!
Together, we’ll cover the sidewalks with encouragement and inspiration for anyone
who may be struggling. Every message matters, and you never know who might need to
see yours.
Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Workshop
Date: Wednesday, September 9th
Time: 12:30 PM - 2PM
Location:Student Services Building, Room 380
Date: Wednesday, September 30th
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30PM
Location:Student Services Building, Room 380
Description: Join us for a free 90-minute workshop and lunch to learn about how you can make a difference for someone who is struggling with a mental health challenge. We will practice trauma-informed strategies to respond, support, and empower individuals.
Additional Information: Lunch will be provided. Seating is limited to 25 people
REGISTER
First Annual Service for Grief and Healing
Time: September 28th , 4PM - 5PM
Location: Fort Douglas Post Chapel
Description:Join us as we close out our annual Suicide Prevention and Awareness Campaign with
a moment for grief related to those we have lost to suicide.
This service is open to all, and is not based in any specific religious tradition.
This gathering will open a space to share our experience of grief and to find hope
in healing following the loss of a loved one.