FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mandy Rey

Aug. 31, 2006

(662) 329-7119

 

MUW launches Suicide Prevention Week

 

COLUMBUS, Miss. – Mississippi University for Women will host Suicide Prevention Week Sept. 4-8 as part of a national effort to reduce suicide.

The campaign is designed to help people recognize the warning signs of suicide and to encourage those in need to call the MUW Counseling Services toll-free crisis hotline at 1-800-784-2433 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

According to the World Health Organization, worldwide, suicide accounts for nearly half of all violent deaths and nearly one million fatalities each year. In Mississippi, more than 291 people died by suicide in 2000, according to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center. Across the country, someone dies by suicide every 17 minutes, accounting for more than 30,000 deaths annually. This number also shows that more people die by suicide than homicide each year.

Deanna Wilkins, assistant director of Counseling Services, said “By working together locally and nationally with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, we are spreading the message that suicide is preventable and help is available for people in crisis.”

Several activities are planned for the week including a suicide prevention program on Wednesday, Sept. 6 and a candle light vigil on Thursday, Sept. 7 to remember those who have been victims of suicide. A “Yellow Campaign” will also be held on Sept. 7, and faculty, staff and students will be encouraged to wear yellow to show their support for the promotion of suicide awareness. A dedication wall will be available in Hogarth throughout the week for those who have been affected by suicide to leave messages.

For more information, please contact Wilkins at (662) 329-7127.