Take Care of Yourself
If you are thinking of ending your life or hurting yourself, there is hope. Things can get better. Start with these two things.
1. Call someone who can help you
Call Counseling and Psychiatry at 803-777-5223 to talk to a counselor. After hours you can CALL OR TEXT 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
2. Reach out to the people around you.
Reach out to the people closest to you. It may feel as if there is no one available, but you are not alone. You have people who love and care for you. Reach out to them. If you believe you cannot talk to your parents, find someone else: a relative, a roommate, a friend, a professor, an advisor or a mentor.
Help Someone Else
Students in emotional distress are more likely to approach friends before they speak with a professional. If a friend sends out signs of distress, either in person or via social media, take it seriously and follow up with them. Start with these three steps.
1. Call someone who can help you
Call Counseling and Psychiatry at 803-777-5223 to talk to a counselor about your concerns and the best way to respond. After hours you can CALL OR TEXT 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call our 24/7 Support line at 833-664-2854.
2. Learn to recognize the warning signs
Fifty to 75 percent of all suicide victims give some warning signs of their intentions in the week before. The person may display overt signs like threatening to hurt or kill themselves or more subtle signs like writing about death and dying. Learn to recognize the warning signs.
3. Sign up for training
Become a Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper. Take the training to recognize the signs of distress and learn to get help for those who are struggling. Sign up for training.