Let's Be Real!... (myth or fact)
Mental Health Issues are rare
Myth.
In 2020, there were an estimated 52.9 million adults aged 18 or older in the United States with AMI. This number represented 21.0% of all U.S. adults
Name 3 symptoms of Depression
1. hopelessness/helplessness
2. thoughts of death/suicide
3. persistent sadness/low mood
4. sleeping too much/not enough
5. lack of appetite/increased appetite
6. loss of interest/pleasure
7. decreased energy/fatigue
T/F admitting that something is wrong is giving up on yourself.
FALSE. Admitting you are having problems is often very hard to do, and asking for help is a sign of strength and willingness to work through what you are experiencing.
True of false- If your friend tells you that they are going to harm themselves and they make you promise to keep it a secret, you should always respect their wishes and keep it a secret.
False. If you are concerned for their safety, tell someone. Talk to someone who can help. It is better to have a friend who is alive and mad at you than to lose a friend. If you think they are serious about attempting suicide, do not be afraid to call 911.
Here on campus you can also call an RA, or your RD on duty.
What was the town of Sterling named before it became Sterling?
Peace
What are 2 signs that someone could be feeling suicidal?
direct suicide threats such as “I want to die,” or indirect threats such as “You would be better off without me”/ personality changes or withdrawn behavior/ hoarding medication/ giving away prized possessions/ lack of interest in future plans/ isolation from friends and colleagues/ depression
T/F: Medication is the only treatment method that works for mental health problems
False. Medication can be helpful, and is sometimes necessary depending on the severity of the issue, but often people find therapy and other lifestyle changes very helpful.
T/F - If I go to counseling, everyone will know I'm struggling.
False! Counselors/therapists are held to confidentiality, which means that no one will know you are seeing someone unless you tell them, or you want us to tell them.
(there are exceptions if you are a danger to yourself or someone else)
Dr. Rich is SC's ___ President (not including interim).
13th
The best way to cope with anxiety is to avoid the things that make you feel anxious.
Myth. Avoiding triggers can often perpetuate the anxiety.
What event is this describing?..." sweating, nausea, trembling and numbness in the legs or hands, dizziness, hot or cold flashes, a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest, hyperventilation, “jelly” legs or blurred vision can develop. Individuals may even feel like they are going to die of a heart attack"
Panic Attack/ Anxiety attack
What is the suicide hotline number?
988, can text or call
What is one thing you can do to help a friend who is struggling?
Listen to them without judgment, spend time with them, encourage them to seek help, go with them to appointments/help them make appointments
The gym used to be on the second floor of what building?
Wilson
Talking about suicide with someone will increase the likelihood of them attempting suicide.
Myth. Talking about suicide with people decreases the chance of them following through.
Name at least 2 places/people you can go to on campus if you need help with your mental health.
US!!!
Student Life - can get you set up with an appointment with us, or talk to Campus Pastor
RA/RD
Nurse Dana
If you are not comfortable seeking help on campus we are happy to help you find someone outside of campus to talk to.
What is one reason someone might hesitate to get help?
They don't want to "burden anyone else with their problems", it is hard to talk about, it makes them feel vulnerable, fear of being judged, stigma, don't know who to tell, don't think the problem is "serious enough", asking for help is "giving up", no resources available
Which current SC coach is a member of the Sterling College Athletic Hall of Fame?
Women's Bball Coach KC Bassett (inducted 2016)