NDSU Suicide Prevention Week scheduled
Events are scheduled from Sept. 15 through Sept. 21.
NDSU’s Counseling Center, the President’s Council for Wellbeing and the NDSU Chapter of the Green Bandana Project are hosting a series of events for Bison Strong: Suicide Prevention Week, which will take place Sept. 15 through Sept. 21.
Bison Strong: Suicide Prevention Week helps raise awareness, reduce the stigma and promote mental health and well-being across the NDSU community. The weeklong events will include various workshops, training sessions, a Counseling Center Open House and much more to highlight the resources available on campus.
“Bison Strong: Suicide Prevention Week is a powerful reminder that every member of our campus community plays a role in supporting mental health,” said Shellie Beeker, the director of the Counseling Center. “Through education, connection and compassion, we can reduce barriers to wellbeing and help one another feel seen, heard and valued. We invite students, faculty and staff to join us in these events to strengthen our collective commitment to suicide prevention, to well-being and to a campus culture of care.”
Wednesday, Sept. 10, is World Suicide Prevention Day. Everyone is welcome to stop by the Memorial Union to make bracelets, buttons and ribbons as a symbol of solidarity and support. While there, participants also can learn more about suicide prevention resources and printed materials that promote awareness.
Below are some of the scheduled events set to take place. View the full schedule online.
Monday, Sept. 15
NDSU CARES (Campus Awareness, Referral and Education for Suicide Prevention)
11 a.m. to noon
Memorial Union, Sahnish room
This training equips faculty and staff members on how to recognize student distress, respond effectively and refer students to support. Participants will be introduced to the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale, a brief, evidence-based tool for assessing suicide risk.
QPR Training (Question, Persuade, Refer) In-person Suicide Training by NDSU Extension
2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Memorial Union, Nueta room
Participants will learn the three steps to help prevent suicide. The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives through innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training.
Tuesday, Sept. 16
The Resilient Mind: Strengthening Self-care & Preventing Suicide by Prairie St. John’s
Noon to 1 p.m.
Memorial Union, Nueta room
Wednesday, Sept. 17
NDSU Counseling Center Open House and Therapy Animals
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Ceres Hall 212
Everyone on campus is welcome to visit the NDSU Counseling Center to meet staff, learn about services and interact with therapy animals, including mini horses.
Thursday, Sept. 18
Colors and Connection Group
3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Memorial Union, Nueta room
Throughout the workshop, students will engage in an abstract art activity, communicate through color, practice mindfulness through expression of color and learn how creativity fosters connections.
Friday, Sept. 19
Green Bandana Project Training
12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Memorial Union, Meadowlark room
The Green Bandana Project creates a visual system around campus for those struggling with anxiety and depression. Bandanas are tied to students’ backpacks after they have pledged to be a safe individual to approach with mental health-related issues and that they can provide resources. More information can be found on the Green Bandana Project website.
Sunday, Sept. 21
Green Bandana Project at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention “Out of the Darkness Walk”
Noon to 1:55 p.m. (activities and food)
2 p.m. (walk begins)
5225 31st Ave. S.
The Out of the Darkness Walk unites communities and acknowledges the ways in which suicide and mental health conditions affect lives. Register online to walk with the NDSU team.