Video: MSU Holds Suicide Prevention Seminar

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STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) – The stress and pressures of college life can be overwhelming for some students. It can lead to feelings of isolation, depression and even to thoughts of taking their own life.

“Balancing studies, balancing schools, balancing intramurals. It’s just hard to keep it all together,” says Karen Lambdin, a graduate student in MSU’s Psychology Department.

Students filled MSU’s McCool Hall to learn more about suicide prevention. Dr. Thomas Joiner of Florida State University presented his theory about the causes of suicide and what can be done to prevent it.

“There’s been the research out there that shows that it is a very big problem in this population. I believe that Dr. Joiner coming is very good for the university to help spread awareness and help dispel some of the myths about suicide,” says Lambdin.

Suicides are mainly committed by older men, however young people can also suffer from conditions that may lead to suicide. Joiner says resources are available for students at the counseling center, the department of psychology or the student health center.

“The key really is to know that the resources are there and to be persistent and patient in accessing resources to get treatment for these conditions that really are painful and that can end catastrophe including suicide,” says Dr. Thomas Joiner of Florida State University.

Signs that someone could be having thoughts of suicide include insomnia, sadness, hopelessness and social withdrawal. Research also shows that one million people commit suicide worldwide each year.