AKA holds community run for suicide awareness

A crowd of students ran or walked with AKA sorority on Sunday to raise awareness for suicide.

AKA worked to plan the event for over a month, and the outpouring of support was overwhelming.

"Honestly I was really overwhelmed,” said AKA Community Service Chair Destyni Winbush, a junior nursing major from Mobile, Alabama. “I was like wow, this is so much of a bigger event than I thought it would be.

“I'm so grateful that so many people were able to come out and show support and be able to uplift the community and be here and fellowship with everyone and learn something new. They’ll also be able to spread that awareness that they learned today. I feel like college is the biggest point you feel like you are alone. It's very important to know that you have someone by your side, there can be someone here for you."

Participants shared how the run/walk affected them.

“It felt really good to be able to walk with so many people on campus,” said Brookelyn Harris, a freshman exercise science major from Sylacauga, Alabama. “It’s so awesome that we all came together to raise awareness for mental health.”

Guest speakers Dr. Shanukah Anderson, a lecturer with personal loss due to suicide, and university Title IX Coordinator Grace Wagstaff spoke to participants before the walk. Both told students it's okay to reach out for help, and many in attendance carried that same sentiment.

"Turn to someone, it's very important to talk to someone,” Winbush said. “Find a safe space, that safe person.

“Allow yourself to open up. It's never good to keep stuff shut in."

Not only can college be a stressor on its own, outside factors can also influence mental health in students.

"School is already a lot,” said Joseph Marshall, a senior physical education major from Bainbridge, Georgia, who ran at the event. “Now with the economy going so high, trying to keep up with bills and everything, getting that together could be a lot on your brain."

Participants left students with heartfelt pieces of advice.

"Whatever you do in life, keep going,” Marshall said. “Don't give up."

Others reiterated that asking for help is important.

“You’re not alone,” Harris said. “If you’re feeling down, definitely reach out for help.”

Troy has many resources for students struggling with their mental health, including on-campus counselling services and TimelyCare, which offers virtual counselling services free for full-time students. TimelyCare also has a TalkNow option, where students can reach a healthcare professional without a scheduled appointment.