September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind one another that no one has to face difficult moments alone.
At GateWay Community College, we believe that well-being is an important part of student success and a responsibility we share as a community. Our 5 C’s, Character, Care, Connection, Contribution, and Career, reflect our commitment to supporting the whole person and creating a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and connected.
College Can Be Challenging
College can be an exciting time filled with new opportunities, relationships, and goals. At the same time, students may experience stress, loneliness, financial concerns, relationship challenges, academic pressure, uncertainty about the future, or other circumstances that can feel overwhelming.
Faculty and staff may experience many of these challenges as well. Mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances.
If you are struggling, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reaching out can be an important first step toward getting the support you deserve.
Check In. Listen. Connect.
You never know what someone else may be going through. A simple check-in can open the door to a meaningful conversation and let someone know they are not alone.
You don't need to have the perfect words. You can simply say:
- “I've noticed you haven't seemed like yourself lately. How are you doing?”
- “I'm here if you want to talk.”
- “You don't have to go through this alone.”
- “I'm here to listen - no judgment.”
- “Would you like me to help you find someone to talk to?”
When someone shares that they are struggling, listen without judgment and take their concerns seriously. You don't have to solve the problem or have all the answers. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is listen, stay connected, and help the person find appropriate support.
If you are concerned that someone may be thinking about suicide, don't ignore the warning signs or assume someone else will step in. Reach out, ask directly about their safety, and help connect them with professional or crisis support.
You Don't Have to Handle It Alone
There are resources available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis, thinking about suicide, or simply need someone to talk to.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free, confidential support by phone, text, and online chat. You do not have to be suicidal to reach out. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call or text 988
For Spanish-language support, call 988 and press 2, or text AYUDA to 988.
Visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to learn more.
Veterans Crisis Line
Veterans, service members, and their loved ones can access the Veterans Crisis Line 24/7.
Call 988 and press 1
You can also text 838255 or use online chat.
Visit the Veterans Crisis Line for more information.
The Trevor Project
LGBTQ+ young people can access free, confidential crisis support through The Trevor Project. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 by phone, text, and online chat.
Call 1-866-488-7386
Text START to 678-678
Visit The Trevor Project to learn more.
In an Immediate Emergency
If you or someone else is in immediate danger or experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
You can also reach out to someone you trust, a friend, family member, faculty member, advisor, counselor, coworker, or another person who can help you connect with support.
A Little Care Can Go a Long Way
Suicide prevention isn't only about responding to a crisis. It is also about creating a community where people feel seen, heard, supported, and connected.
At GateWay, our 5 C’s, Character, Care, Connection, Contribution, and Career, remind us that each of us has a role in building that kind of community.
This September, take a moment to check in, listen, and connect. A simple conversation may make a bigger difference than you realize.
You matter.
Your life matters.
You are worthy of support.
You are not alone.
Take care of yourself. Take care of each other.