Monmouth University’s chapter of Alpha Sigma Tau held an event this past week honoring and spreading awareness for World Suicide Prevention Day. The organization hosted a bake sale, a vigil, and an ‘Awareness Day’ at the Rebecca Stafford Student Center.
Alpha Sigma Tau’s many events proved very successful, with all proceeds of the bake sale going to the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County, located in Shrewsbury New Jersey.
Valentina Sanchez, a junior communication major, said, “We were able to raise three times more money than we did last year, so that’s pretty amazing.”
The Mental Health Association of Monmouth County (MHA) is a non profit organization that provides counseling and other services to those who suffer from depression.
The MHA website states, “As an affiliate of the National Organization Mental Health America and the Mental Health Association of New Jersey, we represent a growing movement of Americans who promote mental wellness for the health and well-being of the nation, every day and in times of crisis.”
Melinda Keith, a junior business major and President of Alpha Sigma Tau, shares, “I am so proud that my chapter was able to help such an amazing organization and give back to the community in a way that will really change peoples lives.”
Kelsey Baron and Valentina Sanchez, Alpha Sigma Tau’s Suicide Awareness Week Chairs, worked hard to gather the names of loved ones who were victims of suicide. These names were honored by making yellow ribbons.
During this time, brochures were handed out at the Rebecca Stafford Student Center to let students know they are never alone, and that there are always opportunities to receive the help one may need.
Students were also encouraged to sign a pledge that no matter how tough life gets, they will seek help and never quit.
The Suicide Awareness Vigil, held at Wilson Hall on Wednesday, the 7th, was a very moving and somber event to honor those who have lost their lives to suicide.
Sanchez spoke about how many people are affected by depression, and because of the stigma around mental health issues very few people seek the help they need.
In addition, the sisters of Alpha Sigma Tau blew bubbles and had a moment of silence to honor those who have lost their lives to suicide.
Alpha Sigma Tau worked diligently to raise awareness about suicide prevention this week.
The goal of these events was to spread awareness and to let the Monmouth community know that there is always someone there for you. “I think SAW went pretty well!” said Sanchez.
Professor of art and design Dale Mahabi said, “Suicide Prevention Week serves as a week-long reminder that tragedy can strike anyone any time, so we should take the awareness generated and make sure that we’re cognizant of friends, family, and loved ones at all times.
“The week was an opportunity to remember those we lost too early, and to make sure everyone who is still here with us feels loved and comfortable enough to ask for help.”
Sanchez continues, “We accomplished our goal which was to bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention among college students.”
PHOTO COURTESY of Samantha Marella
PHOTO COURTESY of Samantha Marella
