Signs & Signals
Myths & Facts
How to Help
Self-Care
Resources
100

Name one sign that someone might be struggling with their mental health.

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • Skipping classes
  • Missing assignments or deadlines
  • Not showing up to work, practice, or club activities
  • Withdrawing from friends or roommates
  • Changes in sleep or eating habits
  • Difficulty concentrating or keeping up with coursework
  • Seeming unusually stressed, sad, or overwhelmed
100

True or False: Asking someone directly if they are thinking about suicide will make them more likely to act on those thoughts.

Answer: False.

Research shows that asking someone directly about suicidal thoughts does not increase the risk of suicide or "put the idea in their head." In fact, having a caring, direct conversation can help the person feel supported and open the door to getting help.

Asking directly is a safe and supportive way to check on someone you are concerned about.

100

A friend seems more stressed, quiet, or withdrawn than usual. What's one way you could check in and show support?

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • "I've noticed you seem down lately. Do you want to talk?"
  • "You seem stressed. How are you doing?"
  • "I wanted to check in. Is everything okay?"
  • "I've noticed you haven't been yourself lately."
  • "I'm here for you if you want to talk."
  • "What can I do to support you right now?"

Key concept: Reach out, listen without judgment, and let the person know you care.

100

True or False - 

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.

True.

Mental health affects how we think, feel, cope with stress, build relationships, and succeed in school, work, and daily life. Just like physical health, mental health needs regular attention and care.

100

What is the national number for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline?

988.

988 is a national resource available for anyone experiencing emotional distress, a mental health crisis, or concerns about suicide.

200

A friend, classmate, teammate, or coworker may show they're struggling through what they say or do. 

Name one way someone might hint that they're feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or emotionally struggling.

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • Talking about feeling hopeless
  • Expressing sadness, anxiety, or loneliness
  • Saying they "can't handle everything anymore"
  • Withdrawing from friends, classmates, or activities
  • Mentioning they feel like a burden
  • Talking more negatively about themselves
200

True or False – 

If a person doesn't have a diagnosed mental health condition, they are not at risk for suicidal thoughts.

People may experience suicidal thoughts for many reasons, including overwhelming stress, loss, trauma, relationship challenges, financial difficulties, substance use, or mental health concerns. A person does not need a formal mental health diagnosis to experience suicidal thoughts.

200

You are worried that a friend may be thinking about suicide. What is the safest thing to do?

A) Avoid bringing it up because you might make things worse
B) Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide
C) Wait to see if things improve on their own

B) Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide

Asking directly and calmly about suicide does not increase risk. It shows that you care, creates an opportunity for an honest conversation, and can help connect the person to support.

200

It's been an especially hard week, and you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and having trouble concentrating. Name one healthy coping strategy that could help you manage your stress.

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • Getting enough sleep
  • Going for a walk or exercising
  • Talking with a friend, family member, or trusted mentor
  • Practicing deep breathing or mindfulness
  • Eating regular, nutritious meals
  • Reaching out to counseling or wellness resources

Healthy coping strategies can help reduce stress, improve focus, and build resilience during challenging times.

200

What is one campus, workplace, or community resource someone can use for mental health support?

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • Campus counseling services, if available
  • Student Health Center (High Plains on Campus)
  • Community mental health centers (e.g., High Plains Community Health Center, Valley-Wide Health Systems)
  • Websites such as Psychology Today to find private practices, therapists, and other mental health clinicians
  • Checking with your insurance provider for covered mental health professionals
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), if offered through a workplace
300

A friend suddenly starts isolating themselves and spending most of their time alone. What could this change be a sign of?

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • Depression
  • Emotional distress
  • Burnout
  • Increased stress or anxiety
  • Social withdrawal
  • A mental health challenge
  • Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless
  • Difficulty coping with personal, academic, or social pressures
300

True or False –

Certain populations may face unique stressors that can increase suicide risk.

Answer: True

Some groups may experience additional stressors such as discrimination, stigma, social isolation, and barriers to healthcare. These factors can increase mental health challenges and suicide risk, making support and access to resources especially important.

Examples of groups that may face these additional stressors include, but are not limited to:

  • LGBTQ+ individuals
  • Veterans
  • People with disabilities
  • People of color
  • Immigrants and refugees
300

A friend tells you they're having a mental health crisis and don't know who to call. Name one crisis or support resource you could connect them with.

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)
  • Colorado Crisis Services (844-493-TALK)
  • Valley-Wide Health Systems
  • The Trevor Project
  • Campus counseling services
  • A local crisis center or emergency room
  • A mental health provider
300

What is one thing you can do to help create a culture where people feel comfortable seeking support for their mental health?

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • Talking openly about mental health
  • Encouraging others to seek help when they need it
  • Sharing mental health resources
  • Listening without judgment
  • Using supportive and respectful language
  • Normalizing therapy, meds, counseling, and mental health services
  • Checking in on friends, classmates, or coworkers
  • Challenging mental health stigma and myths

Small actions can help create a supportive environment where people feel safe asking for help.

300

If someone is experiencing a mental health crisis outside of normal business hours, what resource can they contact 24/7?

Answers may vary. Examples include:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988. [988lifeline.org]
  • Colorado Crisis Services: 844-493-TALK (8255) | Text TALK to 38255.
  • The The Trevor Project: 866-488-7386 | Text START to 678678. [thetrevorproject.org]
  • Veterans Crisis Line: 988, Press 1 | Text 838255. 
  • Valley-Wide Health Systems:(719) 384-5446
  • Local Emergency Department: Prowers Medical Center @ 401 Kendall Dr, Lamar, CO 81052
  • Emergency Services: 911
400

Your friend posts, "I don't know anymore" on their private social media story. What is the safest first step you can take to support them?

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • Reach out and check in with them directly.
  • Ask if they are safe.
  • Ask how they're doing and if they want to talk.
  • Express concern and let them know you care.
  • Encourage them to connect with a trusted friend, counselor, or other support person.
  • Share resources such as 988 if needed.
400

True or False - 

Most people who talk about suicide are just seeking attention.

False.

Any mention of suicide should be taken seriously. When someone talks about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, or not wanting to be here anymore, it can be a sign that they are struggling and need support. Rather than dismissing these statements, it's important to listen, express concern, and help connect the person to appropriate resources.

400

A friend says, "Everyone would be better off without me." What is the best way to respond?

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • Take the comment seriously.
  • Express concern and ask follow-up questions.
  • Ask directly about suicide.
  • Connect them with support.
400

A colleague tells you they're feeling overwhelmed and embarrassed about needing help. What is one thing you could say to encourage them to seek support?

Answers may vary. 

Examples include:

  • "You don't have to go through this alone."
  • "Let's look at some resources together."
  • "You deserve support just like anyone else."
  • "I'm glad you told me. How can I support you?"

Respond with empathy, normalize seeking help, and encourage connection to support.

400

What is one established resource or opportunity that helps you feel connected and supported at your college or workplace? 

&

What is one additional resource or program you would like to see offered to support mental health?

Answers may vary.

Examples of established resources:

  • Student clubs and organizations
  • Campus events and activities
  • Student Health Center (High Plains on Campus)
  • Academic advisors, faculty, or mentors
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
  • Community mental health services

Examples of additional resources participants might suggest:

  • Peer mentorship programs
  • Student or employee support groups
  • More mental health workshops
  • Veteran support groups
  • LGBTQ+ support groups
  • Cultural affinity groups
  • Additional counseling hours
  • Wellness or quiet spaces
  • Stress management programs
  • Mental health awareness events
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