#YouMatter is a suicide awareness and prevention initiative coordinated by Fairfield University Counseling & Psychological Services, Campus Ministry, Collegiate Health Service Corp, and FUSA. On March 26, the University community will highlight the value of every life and dedicate themselves to saving lives. At Fairfield University, students are encouraged to help one another and, importantly, utilize the professional mental health services on campus at Counseling & Psychological Services.

Students, faculty and staff will wear #YouMatter wristbands to remind the community that suicidal thoughts and depression can happen to anyone. Information tables will be set up in the Library, BCC, and Einstein Bagels. The 12:10 pm Mass in Eagan Chapel will be dedicated to those who struggle with depression and despair, as well as to those who took their lives. The #YouMatter initiative is funded by the Julia Ryder Sill Fund. Julia ’13 took her life on campus during her sophomore year.

Not everyone who thinks about suicide will tell someone, and there are some people who give no indication at all of their intention. However, there are warning signs that we can all look out for. These include, if a person is:

• Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Visiting or calling people unexpectedly to say goodbye, either directly or indirectly.
• Giving things away, such as prized possessions

If you are feeling hopeless, helpless or thinking of suicide, get help. If you are concerned about a friend, care enough to get that student help. Both Counseling & Psychological Services and Campus Ministry are confidential and no charge to students. #YouMatter. there are warning signs