Fact or Myth
The only way to treat a mental health concern is with medication.
Myth. Talking with a counselor can be just as effective in some cases as medication.
A term used to describe thoughts of suicide.
Suicidal ideation
What is the 2nd leading cause of death among college students?
Suicide
True or False: If you want to see a counselor for mental health concerns, you will have to go off campus.
False. We have counselors right here on campus that you can talk to.
Suicide happens without warning.
Myth. Most people who commit suicide have expressed their concerns to at least one other person.
True or False: A person who is suicidal is at more risk of harming themselves if they have access to a weapon.
True
1 in __ college students experience anxiety or depression.
5
Where can you go on campus if you or a friend are feeling depressed or having suicidal thoughts?
The Wellness Center
Talking to people about suicide makes them more likely to kill themselves
Myth. Talking to people about suicide gives people a chance to talk to someone about something they may have been keeping secret. Discussion brings the topic into the open and allows for intervention.
Term used for pulling away from friends and activities once found enjoyable.
Social withdrawal
A person is at __ times at greater risk with this in their life.
A loved one lost to suicide
True or False: The Wellness Center is open for crisis services 24/7.
False. The Wellness Center is open from 8am-6pm Monday through Thursday and 8am-4:30pm Friday. In case of a mental health crisis after hours, students should call MSOE Public Safety (414-277-7159).
Suicide occurs more on the weekend.
Myth. Highest number of suicides occur on Mondays and Tuesdays.
A suicidal person could turn to this to cope with their pain.
Substance abuse (alcohol, marijuana, opioids, stimulants, etc.)
Who is 3 times more likely to ATTEMPT suicide?
Females
True or False: The main goal of the counselors in the Wellness Center is to diagnose mental health disorders and prescribe medication.
False: Our counselors do not diagnose or prescribe medication. Our main goal is to talk with students about their concerns and be a support in helping them work through their issues. If a student is seeking a diagnosis or medication, a counselor can help refer them to an off campus resource.
Most suicides occur during the winter.
Myth. The lowest number of suicides occur during December and the most occur in spring.
Name 3 warning signs of suicide.
Suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, lack of purpose, anxiety, feeling trapped, hopelessness, social withdrawal, anger, recklessness, mood changes.
Who is 4 times more likely to die by suicide?
True or false: If I bring up depression or suicidal thoughts to a counselor, they will immediately tell my parents and take me to a mental health facility.
False. Counselors keep student's mental health information confidential unless the student is an imminent danger to harm themselves or others. Counselors are legally bound to keep information private otherwise.