IRMO, S.C. — The Irmo High School Student Council will recognize Suicide Prevention Month throughout September with a series of Wellness Wednesday activities designed to increase student awareness of suicide prevention, mental health resources and ways students can support peers who may be struggling.
The campaign comes as mental health challenges continue to affect high school students across the country. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 20% of high school students report serious thoughts about suicide, while 9% report a suicide attempt.
Throughout September, Student Council members will provide students with information about warning signs, peer support and available mental health resources. Wellness Wednesday activities will give students opportunities to participate in awareness activities, learn how to support their peers and share positive messages throughout the school community.
“You never truly know what someone is going through. Be the person who listens, reaches out, and reminds them they are not alone,” said Hunter Hugg, Irmo High School student body secretary and chair of the Suicide Prevention Awareness Campaign. “One conversation can make a difference, and that’s what I’m here to do.”
Brittany Chennis, Irmo High School’s school-based mental health counselor, emphasized the importance of making mental health resources accessible to students.
“I believe it’s important that students know mental health support is available at school,” Chennis said. “Making mental health accessible and creating a safe space for students to talk can help them feel seen, heard, and supported. I want students to know that asking for help is a strength and they don’t have to navigate difficult moments alone.”
“Our students recognized that awareness is an important part of prevention,” said Eric Coleman, Irmo High School Student Council adviser. “This campaign gives our students the opportunity to learn about resources, look out for their peers, and understand that they never have to face a difficult situation alone.”
Students and families have access to several resources if they or someone they know is experiencing a mental health or behavioral health crisis.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Anyone experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis, or concerned about someone else, can call or text 988 to connect with trained crisis counselors. More information is available at 988lifeline.org.
South Carolina Mobile Crisis Unit: The South Carolina Mobile Crisis Unit provides 24/7 crisis response for individuals experiencing a mental health or behavioral health emergency. Trained mental health professionals can provide mobile crisis services and respond to individuals in crisis.
For the South Carolina Mobile Crisis Unit, call 833-364-2274 or visit bhdd.sc.gov.
