All year long Vandal Health Education works to promote the importance of health and wellness to University of Idaho students, faculty and staff.
“We’re just kind of an umbrella over everyone with all of the resources we have for prevention and protection,” said Vandal Health Ed Intern Ceci McClurg. “It’s just so important for us to know, not only for our safety now, but we have so many resources to build good habits for the rest of our lives.”
One of the events Vandal Health Ed works toward is Suicide Prevention Week. The week recognizes Suicide Prevention Day Sept. 10, and intends to create awareness for those who struggle with suicidal thoughts and tendencies, said Vandal Health Ed Coordinator Emily Tuschhoff.
The purpose of Suicide Prevention Week is to educate people who deal with suicidal tendencies on resources that can help them, as well as educate their peers on ways they can help their friends and family cope with those struggles, Tuschhoff said.
Vandal Health Ed will host a Health Hut from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday Sept. 6 in the Idaho Commons. Tuschhoff said they will give out tips, hold interactive activities and allow UI students and staff to learn about suicide prevention.
Tuschhoff said Vandal Health Ed is currently in the process of scheduling training times for “Question, Persuade, Refer” trainings. “Question, Persuade, Refer” is an emergency mental health intervention that anybody can learn or benefit from, she said. Registration for the training will be available soon.
Later in September, various campus organizations will come together for the “We Got Your Back 5K” that intends to bring awareness to suicide prevention, Tuschhoff said. For $5, any student can participate in the event, which includes a free dinner after the race. The fee is $10 for non-students.
The UI campus offers programs, workshops and resources that students can use daily, McClurg said. To get into contact with student health services, email them at [email protected]. McClurg said she also recommended students visit the Counseling and Testing Center to schedule a meeting with a counselor if they ever feel stressed or anxious.
There are other beneficial resources for students struggling with anxiety or stress. If they don’t feel comfortable going to the Counseling and Testing Center, McClurg said they can also talk to a friend, go to the Women’s Center or the LGBTQA Office.
Elizabeth Blann
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