The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville iCARE (Initiative to Create Awareness, Recognition, and Education on Suicide Prevention) will offer multiple opportunities to join in the conversation about mental health wellness during International Suicide Prevention Awareness Week, Sept. 5-11.
The initiative launched an awareness video this week to initiate this important dialogue.
“This video features members of the SIUE community promoting the shared goal of raising awareness regarding depression and suicide risk among college-age students, and delivering a universal message that SIUE cares about the mental well-being of students.,” said Kelly Gable, PharmD, associate professor of pharmacy practice in the SIUE School of Pharmacy.
Events being held during International Suicide Prevention Awareness Week include:
- Student Government Assoc. and Student Art Therapy Association Tables
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6 in the Morris University Center (MUC) Goshen Lounge
- Student Government Association Information Table
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7 in the MUC Goshen Lounge
- The S Word Documentary Rough Cut Screening with Director Lisa Klein
5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8 in the MUC Meridian Ballroom
- World Suicide Day and Booth
8 a.m.-Noon Saturday, Sept. 10 at the Edwardsville Goshen Market
- Send Silence Packing
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 12 at the Stratton Quad and West Lawn of the MUC
“Through these events, we hope to empower students to learn more, ask questions, and ultimately reduce stigma surrounding seeking help,” Gable said.
iCARE is a multi-tiered collaboration between the SIUE Schools of Pharmacy and Nursing and Counseling Services through a secured grant through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
For more information on iCARE, contact Gable at kgable@siue.edu or Lisa Thompson-Gibson, counselor and suicide prevention project coordinator at lithomp@siue.edu.