SAHET Depression/Suicide Prevention Program

More than 1 in 10 college students consider suicide within a school year, according to the 2000 National College Health Assessment. 61% of college students reported feeling hopeless at least once during the school year according to this survey. 44.4% of college students reported feeling so depressed that it was difficult to function. Depressive illnesses often interfere with normal functioning and cause students to perform poorly even if they have the capacity to do well. Depression can socially isolate a person so they feel lonely, hopeless and disconnected. Students suffering this kind of pain may consider suicide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students. In 2000, suicide was the 3rd leading cause of death among 15-24 year olds.

A depressive illness is a whole-body illness. It affects the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you think about things. A depressive illness is not a passing sad or irritable mood. It is not a symptom of personal weakness or of a character flaw. People with depressive illness cannot just suck it up or get over it or pull it together. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months or years. Appropriate treatment can help over 80 percent of those who suffer from depression.

The Suicide Awareness Health Education and Training (SAHET) program is designed to inform and educate students about depression and to prevent suicide. Its goal is to help students understand how to help friends who may be suffering; what to say to a suicidal friend; how to recognize signs of suicidality; and identify resources. The presentation includes a video, and a discussion facilitated by a mental health professional.

Presentations are typically 1 hour and can be scheduled for residence halls, student groups, and academic classes. To schedule a workshop call Carrie Martin at 301 314 8112, e-mail: cmartin@health.umd.edu.

SAHET Kick Off podcasts

• Opening Remarks: Carrie Martin, LCSW-C, Coordinator, SAHET Program
  Dr. Warren Kelly, Assistant Vice President, Division of Student Affairs ^NEW!
• Dr. Marta J. Hopkinson, Director, Psychiatrist, Mental Health Service, University Health Center ^NEW!
• Dr. Michael Torres, Psychiatrist, Mental Health Service, University Health Center ^NEW!
• Dr. Akira Otani, Licensed Psychologist, University Counseling Center ^NEW!
• AJ Arrese, Student, University of Maryland ^NEW!
• Amy Tannenbaum, Chapters Coordinator, Active Minds, Inc. ^NEW!
• Q and A and Closing Remarks ^NEW!