The past several months have been extremely challenging in many ways, including unexpected disruptions of regular activities, health impacts and apprehension, family conflict and isolation from support systems. In addition, the pandemic has shined a light on tragic inequalities that exist in our country, particularly in racial trauma and injustices, in significant economic differences, and disparities in access to healthcare, technology, education, safe working conditions and childcare.

Suicidal thoughts and behavior may arise from experiencing distressing emotional pain. Being able to cope with difficult emotions and life situations can help us move through these times. Ways to cope can include:

1. Identify the emotion causing distress - our emotions are telling us a need, which can help us act to meet that need.

2. Practice self-soothing - deep breathing and physical relaxation, hold a comfort item, calm and meditation apps, listen to music, writing or drawing, go for a walk or exercising, limit social media exposure. The WellTrack app has a Zen Room with several relaxing guided meditations.

3. Connect with others – reach out to others who can support you, including family, friends, roommates, suitemates, and Resident Assistants. Staff and faculty can help connect students with on-campus resources, including Counseling.

4. Recognizing distressing thoughts and working to change them – our self-talk becomes our reality, and it is important to challenge anxious or negative thoughts. The WellTrack app as a Thought Log feature that shows how to use this skill.

Peterson Counseling Center encourages an environment where discussions surrounding mental health, wellness and suicide are an important part of our community. We you to have the resources to engage in these discussions, to support each other, and to seek help for thoughts of suicide, hopelessness, loneliness and emotional distress. If you are concerned about someone, ask them if they are thinking about suicide, and help connect them to resources. By checking in and offering empathic support, we can show each other that we are never alone.

Community resources are available to help prevent suicide and support those in emotional distress:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Trevor Project TrevorLifeLine for LGBTQ+ Youth: 1-866-488-7386

Crisis Text Line: TALK to 741741

The Steve Fund for Students of Color: Text STEVE to 741741

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Veterans' Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255 Press 1

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990

WellTrack App, in the Apple or Google Play Store, create a free account with your Ringling email

MySSP Student Support Program – Support for students available 24/7 via text, phone and video in multiple languages, download the app or call 1-866-743-7732 or 001.416.380.6578 if outside the U.S.

Peterson Counseling Center in the Student Health Center

counseling@ringling.edu

941-893-2855

Written by Lauren Levine, MA, LMHC

Associate Director of Counseling Services