By Cameryn Bentler
Have you or a loved one ever struggled with mental health? You’re not alone, and members of the Psychology Club at Western New England University want you to know that too.
The month of September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness month, mourning the lives lost too soon.
This month is to bring awareness, share resources, and reduce stigma in hopes that precious lives can be saved from tragedy.
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, many members of the Western New England University community participated in the third annual Suicide Awareness 5K walk/run. Sports teams, friend groups, alumni, and even solo participants showed up to raise awareness for the mental health crisis.
The participants lined up at the starting line, and began running, memorializing the lives lost to suicide with every step until they reached the finish line.
For many students, this run was personal. When asked what brought them to the run, students from different backgrounds, clubs, and sports mentioned their family members or friends that have taken their lives. Being there meant a moment of silence and memorial for the people they lost.
But the struggle with depression and suicidal ideation doesn’t extend to just students’ loved ones – many students quietly face these hardships themselves. According to the CDC in a 2023 study, “the second-leading cause of fatalities for young adults (ages 10-34) is suicide.”
This is due to the high pressures society has contended against its teenagers and young adults. Stressful schedules and high expectations can bring a crisis to mental health if there are no outlets or stigmas surrounding the topic. This campus event brings honor to suicide prevention and lets students know they are not alone.
Executive board members of the Psychology Club were first in line to show their support for the cause by offering resources, smiling faces, and moments of silence for lives lost.
But it wasn’t just members of the Psychology Club that charged head-first to show their support. Western New England University’s basketball, swimming, lacrosse, and wrestling teams all showed up to run. Cheerleaders posted at every checkpoint to make some noise for the participants.
The community here at campus goes to show the solidarity students have for one another. At Western New England University, the camaraderie extends beyond the fluorescent-lit classrooms.
Dozens of students came to the Commonwealth Lawn to register and participate in this awareness campaign early Saturday morning – a difficult task for many students.
Nonetheless, students can count on their peers to show guidance and support. This month is important to showcase that and let those struggling with mental health know that they don’t need to bottle up their struggles.
If you or a loved one is struggling with any mental stress, do not hesitate to use your resources here on campus. The Center for Health and Wellbeing at Western New England University is here to ensure the wellbeing of their students with licensed practitioners such as therapists and nurses.
Rest assured – anything you say will be kept confidential and handled with respect. These medical professionals are eager to support you.
Health and Wellness Center number: 413-782-1211.
Or book an appointment via student patient portal.
In the face of the growing mental health crisis, events such as this 5K Awareness Walk/Run remind faculty and students of the importance of unity and compassion.
No one should have to walk (or run) their path alone. Regardless of if you walk alone, with a friend, or with your entire sports team, this campus stands as a reminder that support is just right around the corner, whenever you may need it.
Let this month not only serve as a time of awareness and memorial – but also a call to action. Check on your loved ones, help destigmatize the conversation of mental health, and know it is ok to ask for help if you are drowning.
