Several events are recognizing the national suicide and mental health awareness week in remembrance of those who have tried or committed suicide in Athens.
One event is a candlelight vigil organized by the Athens County Suicide Prevention Coalition and Ohio University’s Chi Sigma Iota international honors society to remember those who are affected by suicide or mental illness.
“Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day to honor those who died or attempted suicide and who are struggling with depression,” said Christine Suniti Bhat, associate professor in counselor education from the Patton College of Education, member of the Athens County Suicide Prevention Coalition and chapter faculty chair of Chi Sigma Iota.
The candlelight vigil starts at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday to remember those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts or depression.
“The idea is that a person will say aloud a name of a person they know who has died or (been) affected by suicide and honoring their memory,” Bhat said.
“Positive connections with friends and family can protect those at risk of suicide.”
OU’s Post-IT! organization planned a week filled with events to contribute to the education and awareness of suicide prevention.
“Members of Post-IT! and hopefully other students (will be) interested in sharing stories and spreading hope and love,” said Kaitlin Flynn, Post-IT!’s secretary and a junior studying dance and business.
Some OU students believe that the week dedicated to suicide prevention is important for the well-being of the campus as well as Athens County.
At least two OU students have committed suicide in the past two years.
Rachel Keaveny, a senior studying information design, said there isn’t a lot of discussion of suicide or depression because of the stigma surrounding both topics.
“I think it’s important especially since there’s been several suicides on this campus,” Keaveny said. “Maybe if we talked about it, it would help people who are struggling to be open about it.”
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