The prevalence of anxiety and depression is rising across the country as we continue to try and figure this all out. The Chronicle of Higher Education affirms that “college students of all ages are more distressed than ever before, and increasing shares are enrolling with mental-health histories, in terms of diagnoses, treatment, and medication. But that is not the real campus mental-health crisis.” More and more overwhelmed students are seeking help. As men of Pi Kappa Alpha we want to remind you that through our partnership with JED Foundation, and through the generosity of the Caummisar family, help may be only a click away. Take time in the coming weeks to visit PIKE Lifeline and remind a brother that reaching out for support is a strength.
Additionally, July is Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Awareness Month.
Originally named Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, mental health partners have joined together in replacing the word “minority” with BIPOC — Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. In supporting the BIPOC community, they recognize the direct impact language can have on an individual’s identity and mental health. The word “minority” emphasizes the difference in power between “majority” and “minority” groups and can make BIPOC feel “minority” is synonymous with inferiority. While “minority” and “marginalized” may be used in academic spaces, the words the mental health community uses must change to help communities understand how these terms create and perpetuate negative images and stereotypes of individuals that identify as BIPOC.
Both the JED Foundation and their partner, The Steve Fund, whose mission is to promote the mental health and emotional well-being of students of color, have developed resources and support options specifically for BIPOC.
A few good reads:
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