Every year, World Suicide Prevention Day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support for those in need. Missouri S&T is committed to fostering a community that values mental health and well-being. To mark World Suicide Prevention Day on Sunday, Sept. 10, the student well-being team will host a series of events Friday, Sept. 8, to raise awareness, provide valuable information, and promote a sense of unity among students, faculty and staff. Everyone is welcome to attend the events below.

Jeopardy and Tabling Event

Join Joe’s PEERS and student well-being in the Havener Center Atrium 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, for an engaging Jeopardy-style game focused on mental health, suicide prevention, and substance use and recovery. Test your knowledge and learn about critical topics that can make a difference in someone’s life.

“Creating a Plan to Take Care of Your Mental Health” Workshop

In collaboration with Staff Champions, you’re invited to a workshop designed to help you create a personalized mental health care plan. The workshop will be held 1-2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, in the Missouri Room of the Havener Center. This session will cover essential elements of mental health and self-care, including stress management, sleep strategies, overcoming procrastination, seeking support, and optimizing your lifestyle. By the end of this workshop, you’ll leave with practical tools to enhance your mental well-being.

Brave Talk Presentation

S&T’s commitment to suicide prevention extends beyond self-care. Learn more at the Brave Talk Presentation 2:30-3:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, in Room 208 Norwood Hall. This expert-developed training is designed to equip you with the skills needed to support peers who may be struggling with mental health challenges. Learn how to connect them to the appropriate care and resources. Snacks will be provided to keep you energized and engaged.

All Day – Wear Purple!

Throughout Friday, please wear purple as a symbol of solidarity and support for World Suicide Prevention Day. By wearing this color, you show your commitment to raising awareness and fostering a compassionate and understanding community.

All of campus is encouraged to complete the Missouri S&T “Ask, Listen, Refer” training program for suicide prevention.

“World Suicide Prevention Day is an opportunity for us to come together, learn, and grow as a community that values mental health and well-being,” says Jessica Gargus, director of well-being. “We hope to see you at these events as we work toward creating a more empathetic and supportive environment for all members of the Missouri S&T family.”

In addition to the Sept. 8 events, three of S&T’s committees that focus on student health and well-being were recently accepted into the Missouri Suicide Prevention Coalition Academy. This academy is designed to help community prevention coalitions implement sustainable, evidence-based efforts. It is the first in the nation. Additionally, Missouri S&T has participated in JED Campus, a nationwide initiative to guide schools through a collaborative process of comprehensive systems, programs, and policy development with customized support to build upon existing mental well-being, substance abuse, and suicide prevention efforts.

For more information about these events or resources related to mental health and suicide prevention, please contact student well-being at wellbeing@mst.edu or visit wellbeing.mst.edu.