Field of Memories Raises Awareness for Suicide Prevention

The Counseling/Student Development Center joins hundreds of campuses and organizations across the nation in hosting Marywood's 2^nd annual Field of Memories exhibit. As part of National Suicide Prevention Month, Marywood University’s (C/SDC) will organize a display of 1,100 white flags, which will be called the “Field of Memories.” 

This event takes place on college campuses across the country each year to represent the number of college students who are lost to suicide annually. Marywood students and faculty are encouraged to stop by the display on Friday, September 10. Messages of hope to those struggling or memories of loved ones lost to suicide can be written on the flags. Messages of hope may read, “You’ve got this” and “You matter.” In addition to representing the students lost annually to suicide, the C/SDC hopes that this display will also show students that they are not alone. Suicides and suicide attempts have a ripple effect that impacts not only individuals, but also families, communities, and societies. Associated risk factors for suicide, such as job or financial loss, trauma or abuse, mental and substance use disorders, and barriers to accessing health care, have been further amplified by COVID-19.

Creating Hope Through Action is a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and light in all of us; that our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling. Preventing suicide is often possible and you are a key player in its prevention. Through action, you can make a difference to someone in their darkest moments - As a student, as a teacher, as a member of society, as a child, as a parent, as a friend, as a colleague or as a neighbour. We can all play a role in supporting those experiencing a suicidal crisis or those bereaved by suicide.

The C/SDC will also be connecting with students through the use of Facebook and Instagram. For further information about this event and many others planned for this year, visit the C/SDC social media pages (@marywoodcsdc and @marywooduniversity_csdc). Participate in this important day by taking part in the event, stopping by the info/resource table in front of the Learning Commons from 11 a,m.-2 p.m., and/or by participating in conversations with one another.