New public service campaign helps SU community understand and address depression and suicide

New public service campaign helps SU communityunderstand and address depression and suicideMarch 25, 2005Michele Barrettmibarret@syr.edu

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students, and more than 19 million Americans will experience some form of depression in their lifetimes. So the Syracuse University Counseling Center has created a new public service campaign that will debut on area radio stations to help the campus community understand the mental health services readily available to students.

Since March 23, stations WJPZ-Z89 (89.1 FM) and WAER-FM88 (88.3 FM) have been running the public service announcements. They will air 13 times weekly in alternating spots through the remainder of the semester.

Tanya Bowen, associate director of the Counseling Center, explains, “Given the staggering statistics, the Syracuse University Counseling Center has developed a public service campaign designed to educate the campus community and to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. We want people to know about the services available at the Counseling Center and that treatment is available.”

The Counseling Center aims to provide students with comprehensive clinical and mental health services that facilitate problem resolution, help improve relationships, enhance personal growth and support successful academic achievement. The professional staff includes 11 trained therapists focused on enhancing the psychological well-being of individual students and the broader campus community. For more information, contact the Counseling Center at 443-4715.