Subject: This e-mail may save a life

May 08, 2006 22:55

Dear Hopkins Student,

As a reminder of how important it is to take care of one another, we are sending this email again. that is to say, absolutely no one acknowledged this the first time around. i hate my school.

Please read this letter and save it. One day, it might help you save someone's life. it's in my files.

Many groups at Hopkins feel the problem of depression is a serious one, (not the administration) and we are joining the Counseling Center and the Dean of Students offices in bringing this to your attention. We all know that Hopkins can be a stressful place. Many students struggle with depression, and may try to hide it even from those closest to them. Occasionally, depression leads to suicide. that was flippant. There are ways to understand depression and suicide and ways to help one another through difficult times.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death in the college population. Since 95 percent of college students who commit suicide are suffering from clinical depression, we feel it is important that you know what to look for if you suspect someone you know is depressed.

Symptoms:

Depression and thoughts of suicide can affect a person's life in different ways. Some people may display behavioral changes, while others experience physical symptoms.

Depression has many warning signs, including:

* Sadness or anxiety ...
* Feelings of guilt, helplessness, or hopelessness check.
* Changes in appetite or sleep pattern check.
* Withdrawal from friends and social activities check.
* Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities ... check
* Increased use of alcohol or drugs so ... college?
* Increased anger or irritability check.

Signs of potential suicide include:

* Talking about harming oneself
* Speaking about "wanting out" (lol ... ?) or "ending it all," even in passing
* Taking unnecessary or life-threatening risks
* Giving away personal possessions
* A sudden apparent improvement in mood or outlook (being happy?)

Suicide can be triggered by a number of things, including:

* Stressful events such as a failed exam, failure to get a job, or prolonged illness
* Crises in significant social or family relationships
* Interpersonal losses such as a romantic breakup
* Anything that provokes intense anger or anxiety

How to help a friend:

If you notice any of the above warning signs you have reason to be concerned. There are ways that you can be helpful:

· Express your concerns. For example: "You seem really down lately. Is something bothering you?"

· Ask directly about thoughts of suicide: "Have you thought of hurting yourself?"

· If your friend is having suicidal thoughts it is important to contact the University

Counseling Center (410-516-8278, or after hours and on weekends through Homewood Campus Security at 410-516-7777).

· Listen and offer emotional support, understanding, and patience. Convey the message that depression is real, common, and treatable.

· Offer to accompany your friend to see a counselor at the Counseling Center, located in Garland Hall, room 358, Homewood campus. A counselor also comes to the Nursing campus one afternoon a week by appointment.

· If unsure what to do, feel free to consult with the Counseling Center staff at the numbers above.

Above all, be supportive and as nonjudgmental as possible. As part of the Hopkins community we all need to be attentive, and responsive to those around us.

You can help. You may even save a life!

Additional information about depression, eating disorders, substance abuse and other mental health issues is available 24/7 on the Counseling Center website: www.jhu.edu/counselingcenter

Thank you for your attention to this very important matter!
.
yeah, what the fuck ever, hopkins.
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