What is your message to someone who is thinking about suicide?
It makes sense if you’re feeling like it’s too much right now. What you’re experiencing is overwhelming and you deserve support in coping with this. There are several resources on campus that you can access to talk about what’s going on – there are so many people who care and who can support you in coming up with options for accessing the supports you need and deserve.
What would you tell someone who is feeling unsure about seeking support?
As a Black woman, I understand the importance of feeling safe and being heard while accessing care supports. At some point in our lives, we all need help and I’ve often been apprehensive in reaching out to supports that lack intersectional approaches to care that consider my experiences as a Black person and as a Black woman. Finding supports that are a good fit for you is important. Thankfully there are several resources on and off campus for Black communities in Windsor-Essex. For example, we have a clinical therapist for Black students at UWindsor who is here to help through the Student Counselling Centre, as well as agencies in the community that specialize in supporting Black peoples. I encourage you to reach out.
Why does suicide prevention matter to you?
Suicide prevention matters to me because I wholeheartedly believe it is important to meet someone where they are at. Suicide prevention increases dialogue and helps break down stigma attached to suicide in the Black community. Everyone deserves support in whatever they are going through and there are so many resources on campus built in to assist you. I hope you choose to reach out for support if you need it. Reaching out is incredibly courageous.
How do you cope when things get tough?
I cope by being in community with others who look like me. There is healing in community, there is hope in community, and there is a trusted space to just be me in my whole authentic self. When you’re going through a difficult time, it can be tempting to isolate yourself, but I encourage you to find your people and create your community.
What gives you hope?
I have found hope when I have support from others. I feel encouraged to always show up as my whole self and realize all the things I have planned to accomplish. The possibilities of those opportunities give me hope.