The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration awarded the University $301,215 that will benefit the college’s Suicide Prevention Program.
Over a period of three years, the program has aimed to help the campus community become more aware of issues relating to suicide and mental health. Counseling and Psychological Services have been contributing in the effort to decrease the number of students suffering from these problems with the creation of the Promoting Wellness and Resiliency Program (PWR).
PWR offers students the ability to learn about things including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem and stress. Dr. Franca Mancini, Director of Counseling and Psychological Services said that power can be found in wellness.
Christopher McKittrick, a Psychological Counselor, believes awareness of suicide is a big step in trying to stop it. “To ignore the issue of suicide, in my opinion, does not prevent it,” he said.
With the funds, PWR will provide programs and training on how to identify signs and symptoms of mental health problems.
The grant was accepted at an event held on September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day. Dr. Mancini, along with President Paul G. Gaffney, Professor of Social Work Dr. Michelle Scott and Dr. Robin S. Mama Professor and Dean of Social Work accepted the award at the event. Dr. Mancini said the University was chosen partly because there is a lot in place that supports the issues dealing with mental health.
Vice President Mary Anne Nagy said that students sometimes turn to things like alcohol, drugs and suicide because of the challenges they face in college. “This grant helps us to continue to support our programs and services aimed at counteracting these choices. It helps us to continue to re-enforce the notion that Monmouth Hawks Fly Together because we are all part of this community,” said Nagy.
“The Grant will help us enhance our current programs while also allowing us to bring new, dynamic activities to campus,” said Mckittrick. “By increasing our programming, enhancing our services and promoting wellness and resiliency throughout the campus, the grant can help the University positively impact the issue of suicide on college campuses.”
Students, faculty and clinical specialist have the ability to receive training. “Everybody can be a part of this awareness campaign,” said Mancini. She said that if the campus community is willing, “we can make a huge difference in people’s lives.”
Students say they want to find a solution. “I’d help to end suicide,” said junior English and Education major, Elisha Hendelson. “It affects many people, no matter if you’re directly involved or not, so if we all understand what’s involved maybe we can stop it.”
Sophomore psychology and sociology major Melissa Galvin I’ve come to notice more than effort in trying to ensure each and succeeding.” She also said, “Still, certain problems are inevitable and suicide is widespread for varying reasons. This grant will aid in Monmouth’s ever growing efforts to ensure every life reaches its ultimate potential. ”
Three individuals will be implementing this grant; Dr. Mancini, Dr. Scott and Dr. Mama. After the three-year implementation period, the plan is to continue in sustain the progress.
“The fact that Monmouth has been awarded this grant shows, to and its professionals are regard-is one of a very few schools in this grant and entrusted to promote wellness and resiliency,” he said.
