Conell University deals with suicides

CNN.com posted a story regarding Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and their recent jump in suicide rates. Since the begining of the fall semester, there have been 3 confirmed suicides and 3 more suspected suicides. From 2005 to 2008, there were no reported suicides at the school, so officials are tackling the issue head on to try and resolve it. In an attempt to dissuade anyone from jumping off a bridge into a gorge, as some of the students had, Cornell has placed guards at the bridges to monitor them.

As I read this story, I was saddened by the cold hard facts and I feel badly for the students that could not find help in time. I have lost a very dear friend to suicide and I know how it feels to be left without answers.

I can only imagine the pain the friends and family of those people must be going through. It's possible that some of those friends knew more than one of the victims, and that pain must be paramount. Suicide is a very sensitive subject, and I believe part of the reason why is that speculation plays such a big role in it. No one can ever really know the suffering a person feels when the only way out seems to be ending it all. How could you? Even if they left a note, the anguish can never be truly realized. The president of Cornell, David Skorton, said "If you learn anything at Cornell, please learn to ask for help. It is a sign of wisdom and strength" I hope that not only students at this particular University, but people everywhere can heed this message. After my friend died, I was angry at him for not reaching out and guilty that I didn't recognize the signs before hand.

I hope this story can somehow shed light onto the stress college students can feel overwhelmed by. Sometimes just calling a friend who can be there to listen is a way to relieve stress. Or taking the time to be that kind of friend to someone else who needs it can have a positive impact.