Survey shows suicidal thoughts frequent on U.S. college campuses

William Atkins
Wednesday, 20 August 2008 18:35

Science - Health

The students surveyed stated that their reasons for thinking about suicide were to end negative thoughts about some type of physical or emotional pain, problems with a romantic relationship, or problems with school or academics.

The students gave an overdose of drugs as the most often way they would attempt suicide.

The authors suggest that a more effective way to deal with suicide on campuses is to focus on suicidal thoughts and behaviors “as the problem, rather than looking only at students in crisis.”

The APA press release concludes: “With growing levels of distress among college students and diminishing resources to handle the consequences, suicide prevention needs to involve a cross section of campus personnel – administrators, student leaders, advisers, faculty, parents, counselors – and not just involve the suicidal student and the few mental health professionals available."

And, "'This would reduce the percentage of students who engage in suicidal thinking, who contemplate how to make an attempt and who continue to make attempts' said Drum.”