top of page
Search

Suicide Prevention & Women’s Mental Health — Support & Resources

You are not alone. Your life matters.

ree

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. For college and early-career women, acknowledging emotional pain is the first courageous step toward healing. The start of a new school year brings fresh opportunities—but it can also surface emotional challenges that too often go unseen.


Starting or returning to college can be an exciting yet overwhelming time. For first‑year students, the shift from high school to college life means learning to live away from home, managing new schedules, and making new friends. Returning students often feel the pressure to maintain or improve their academic performance. Graduate students and early‑career women navigate their own set of challenges—balancing independence with remaining connections to family and friends.


As the school year begins and the seasons change, darker mornings and evenings, fewer hours outdoors, and less sunlight can also impact mood and energy levels, particularly among women who may already be juggling heavy academic and personal responsibilities (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2021).


Research shows that nearly one in four cisgender women (23%) have at some point told someone they were going to commit suicide or that they might do it—a sobering reminder of how common emotional distress can be on campus (American College Health Association, 2023). This highlights the urgent need for campus-based support for anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention among college students. Addressing emotional wellness isn't just important—it's life-saving.


Warning Signs That Matter

  • Talking or posting about feeling trapped or hopeless

  • Withdrawing from friends or favorite activities

  • Dramatic sleep or mood changes

  • Giving away treasured items or saying goodbye


Unique Pressures for College-Age Women

Women face unique mental health stressors: menstrual-related mood changes, identity challenges, bias, isolation. These risks are real—and they deserve real, compassionate support.


  • Hormonal fluctuations (PMDD, postpartum) can intensify depression

  • Women of color and LGBTQ+ women often face added stigma and barriers to care


This calls for mental health care that’s compassionate, inclusive, and student-focused

What You Can Do Right Now

  1. Check on your friends—especially the super high-achievers or “strong ones”

  2. Ask directly: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”

  3. Share helplines and campus resources confidently

  4. Prioritize your own wellness—especially when supporting others

  5. Reach out to a provider—even virtually—if you notice signs

📌 Resources for Support

National

Local

🔖 Related Reads


📝 Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your licensed healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.


🤞🏽 REMEMBER: Your struggles don’t define your worth—they challenge you to build your resilience. You’re part of a community that cares, that heals, and that actively supports one another. If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone else—reach out now. Your life, and your peace, matter more than you know.

🔍 Sources

Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet
Add a rating
bottom of page