Seawolves Take Steps Toward Suicide Awareness in Walk of Hope

Hundreds of students and other members of the Stony Brook university community took part in the seventh annual Walk of Hope on September 28. Photos by John Griffin.

September was Suicide Awareness Month, and during that time Stony Brook took steps to create a strong support system for student mental health. The month of events culminated in the university's seventh annual Walk of Hope on September 28.

Melissa Woody, ​​collegiate outreach coordinator in the Center for Prevention and Outreach (CPO), highlighted the importance of community and the power of connection in preventing mental health crises. "The three things we want students to know are: one, they are not alone; two, being part of a community is a protective factor; and three, we're all in this together," she shared.

The Walk of Hope is a representation of that community spirit and connection. Nearly 500 students, staff, faculty and community partners participated, "… all with personal connections to suicide, all wanting to make a difference. There's something special about being in a space with so many people advocating for change," Woody said.

The assembled group was greeted by Woody and Vice President for Student Affairs, Rick Gatteau, who spoke about the importance of asking how others are, and following up on the question to make sure that the answer isn't masking a deeper issue. During the walk, the group chanted, "Speak up. Reach out. You are not alone."

Throughout September's National Suicide Prevention Month, Stony Brook offered bystander intervention training, aiming to equip students with tools to recognize when someone might be in distress. "We trained over 50 students in one day with our QPR program," Woody said, referring to the Question, Persuade, Refer method used to identify and support individuals considering suicide.

Woody emphasized that reaching out for help isn't a sign of weakness but rather of strength and awareness. "Recognizing your own red flags and taking action is a sign of increased cognitive ability," she explained. "It's important for students to know that prioritizing their mental health is smart and essential."

The Walk of Hope also fosters personal connection and healing. "We incorporate honor bracelets and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's color scheme to help people share their stories. Whether someone has lost a friend or had a personal struggle, it's a way to engage in conversations and find solidarity," Woody added.

Another unique element is the 'Rocks of Hope,' where participants write positive messages on stones, which are then displayed around campus. "If you're having a bad day and walking to class, seeing one of those messages can really change your mindset."

Woody emphasized the resources available at Stony Brook to support the mental and emotional well-being of students, which includes direct services through Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and Timely Care, as well as assistance navigating challenges through the Student Support Team.

"Suicide is the third leading cause of death among college-age individuals, and it's something that affects our students. But being part of a community like this - one that cares about care and mental health - can really make a difference," Woody said.

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to Counseling and Psychological Services. If you are in crisis and need to connect with CAPS, call the crisis line at 631-632-6720, Option 2.

- Beth Squire

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