Suffolk Reporter

September marked Suicide Awareness Month, during which Stony Brook University focused on strengthening support for student mental health. The efforts culminated in the seventh annual Walk of Hope on September 28.

Melissa Woody, collegiate outreach coordinator at the Center for Prevention and Outreach (CPO), emphasized the significance of community and 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 stated.

The Walk of Hope symbolized this community spirit. Nearly 500 participants, including students, staff, faculty, and community partners joined with personal connections to suicide. Woody remarked that “there’s something special about being in a space with so many people advocating for change.”

Vice President for Student Affairs Rick Gatteau addressed the group alongside Woody, stressing the importance of asking how others are doing and ensuring responses do not conceal deeper issues. During the walk, participants chanted messages such as “Speak up. Reach out. You are not alone.”

Throughout National Suicide Prevention Month in September, Stony Brook offered bystander intervention training to help students recognize signs of distress. “We trained over 50 students in one day with our QPR program,” Woody noted regarding the Question, Persuade, Refer method used to assist those considering suicide.

Woody highlighted that seeking help reflects strength and awareness rather than weakness. “Recognizing your own red flags and taking action is a sign of increased cognitive ability,” she explained.

The Walk of Hope also promoted personal connection through honor bracelets and colors from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to encourage sharing 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.

A unique feature was ‘Rocks of Hope,’ where participants wrote positive messages on stones 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 stressed available resources at Stony Brook for student mental well-being including Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and Timely Care as well as support from the Student Support Team.

“Suicide is the third leading cause of death among college-age individuals... But being part of a community like this — one that cares about care and mental health — can really make a difference,” Woody said.

For assistance or crisis support from CAPS call 631-632-6720, Option 2.