Suicide is often described as that moment when an individual believes their pain exceeds the resources available.
Nearly 35% of University of Michigan students surveyed say they think about suicide to some degree. On a national scale, the number of lives lost to suicide is climbing, especially among our veterans and service personnel. According to published reports, more veterans have died by suicide than those killed serving in Afghanistan.
But we can make a difference by increasing prevention efforts, nurturing a community of caring, developing additional health care options, and reducing the stigma around accessing support.
It’s important to remember; however, that support resources do exist, and you or your friends are not alone in your struggle. The key is knowing how and where to access this help, especially when reaching-out seems hardest.
Our work as a Community of Caring is to ensure that every student knows where to turn for support. Whether on campus, in an off-campus apartment, or at home with family, student support is just a phone call away.
Local Resources
- CAPS: (734) 764-8312
- U-M Psychiatric Emergency Services & 24 Hour Crisis Line: (734) 996-4747
- University of Michigan Police: (734) 763-1131
- Ann Arbor Police: 911
More campus and local resources can be found on CAPS Emergency Support Page
The United States government has also made a special effort in recent years to increase services for veterans, military personnel, and military families. From online resources, to accessible clinics, to national awareness campaigns, the word is getting out that there is help available. In fact, in August 2012, President Obama signed an executive order mandating increased access to mental health services for those affiliated with the armed forces.
Some of the best resources for veterans: