Know the signs: Trojan Outreach discusses suicide

by Belle Johnson

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-14 and 25-34, according to a 2020 analysis by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. More than a million people in the U.S. attempt suicide every year.

Trojan Outreach wants students to be aware of signs and behaviors that might indicate someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts. 

The organization, aimed at promoting wellness, set up a table outside the Trojan Center last week. It displayed posters listing the many signs those who are struggling might show.

“A lot of times, people that are struggling with suicidal thoughts, they’re not going to say anything,” said Althea Marsh, a senior human services major from Brewton, Alabama. Marsh is a Peer Educator for Trojan Outreach. 

According to Marsh, signs can include poor hygiene, losing interest in activities, and self-isolation. 

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention lists signs such as giving away possessions, increased drug or alcohol abuse, fatigue, aggression and irritability.

Trojan Outreach’s discussion was called “The Semicolon Project.” The semicolon has become a national symbol of suicide survivors. 

“ is a continuation of a sentence,” Marsh said. “We want to let them know your life doesn’t end here. 

“It can continue on.”

Marsh said students who are struggling have the option to talk to a physician, join a support group or visit the Student Counseling Center. 

“Counseling is free and it’s available for all students,” Marsh said. “If they’re not ready for that, at least talk to a friend or a family member.”

To make an appointment with the counseling center, students can call 334-670-3700 or email scc@troy.edu. 

Marsh said she wants struggling students to know they are not alone in what they are going through. 

“I think a lot of times, we can all help each other out if we would just open a conversation to talk about a lot of the troubles we’ve had,” Marsh said. “Even if you feel like no one else is going through this, someone else is.”

Trojan Outreach’s next event will be held next week, and it will be about preventing and bringing awareness about sexual assault. 

“We just want to talk about things that you don’t want to talk about – problems in everyday life,” said Peer Educator Jazmin Laney, a sophomore psychology major from Midland City, Alabama. 

More information on suicide prevention strategies can be found on the CDC website.