Washington Adventist University Marks World Suicide Prevention Day With Campuswide Conversation, Resources

TAKOMA PARK, Md. — Washington Adventist University devoted its Sept. 10 convocation to suicide awareness and prevention, pairing worship with a candid, research-grounded panel discussion that urged students to seek help for themselves and one another.

The program opened with music and testimony before transitioning to a conversation led by the chair of WAU’s Department of Psychology and Counseling Dr. LaVonne Brown. Framing the hour as part of September’s Suicide Prevention Month, the moderator emphasized WAU’s whole-person commitment—spiritual, mental, social and cultural—and said the “strongest step we can take is simply asking for help.”

Panelists reviewed national trends affecting college campuses and translated them into plain next steps for students. Citing higher-education surveys, speakers noted that more than 1 in 10 students report suicidal thoughts in a given year; about 5% report a plan; roughly 1% report an attempt. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among U.S. college students. Behind each statistic, the panelists said, is a classmate, friend or family member.

They outlined common risk factors—persistent hopelessness or worthlessness, prior attempts, family history, untreated depression or anxiety, substance use, and acute life stressors—and encouraged students to watch for behavior changes, social withdrawal, abrupt mood shifts, giving away prized possessions, or comments that hint at self-harm. Any statement about suicide, they said, should be taken seriously and acted on immediately.

Creating “safe spaces” starts with everyday choices, the panelists said: use non-stigmatizing language, listen without judgment, and normalize help-seeking as a sign of strength. Several cautioned against equating mental-health struggles with spiritual failure. “Spirituality can be a powerful coping resource,” one panelist said, “but depression and anxiety are real health conditions that deserve real care—just like high blood pressure or diabetes.”

Students asked how to respond when a friend refuses help or shares suicidal thoughts in confidence. The guidance: keep checking in, connect the person to professional care, and, when safety is at stake, break secrecy to protect life—even if it risks a friendship. “Better an angry friend than a lost one,” a panelist said.

Resources shared at convocation included:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)

• Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741)

• Montgomery County Mobile Crisis outreach (24/7 assessment and transport when needed)

• WAU Counseling Services, which offers confidential sessions and referral support; students were encouraged to schedule proactively and to use campus communications for contact details and availability

The convocation also previewed an evening of praise and worship music and announced an Oct. 11, 8 p.m., campus praise concert open to the wider Union Conference community.

As Suicide Prevention Month continues, WAU leaders asked students, faculty and staff to keep conversations going, reduce stigma, and “be strong” together by noticing, asking directly about safety, and walking classmates to help.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 right now. You are not alone.

Washington Adventist University is a Christ-centered community where faith, learning and service prepare students to lead and heal a hurting world. Ready to grow in a place that cares for your whole life—mind, body and spirit? Apply to WAU and join us.