Field of Memories: Raising awareness for suicide prevention

   Helping people can look different, but it is as simple as asking a question and checking up on someone. September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month, and the University of South Dakota’s Student Counseling Center decided to contribute in a more visual way. 

     The Field of Memories event, hosted by the Student Counseling Center this Tuesday, turned the MUC West Lawn at USD into a place of remembrance and awareness. 

     “[The event] is meant to symbolize people that we’ve lost but also start the conversation about mental health and suicide because it should be something more frequently and openly talked about. People shouldn’t feel isolated,” said Benjamin Severson, Mental Health and Addiction Counselor at the Student Counseling Center. 

     The South Dakota Department of Health stated in its Suicide Data Report that in 2024, suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in South Dakota but was the leading cause among ages 20 to 39. The report also states that South Dakota had the 9th highest suicide death rate in the United States in 2023. 

     “But we don’t just want to look at statistics; we want something more visual, so it makes it more real. Behind every number is a person,” said Severson. 

     At the event, attendees could write the name of someone they lost, honor someone who has struggled with mental health, or write a message of encouragement and hope.  

     “Ultimately, we want students who walk through the field, especially someone who is struggling, to come away with the message that ‘you matter, people care about you, help is available and your story isn’t finished,’” said Severson. 

Flags placed in honor of those who have died due to suicide. Placed in the MUC west lawn.

     But suicide prevention and awareness are not only addressed during the month of September. At USD, the Student Counseling Center partners with different departments and staff to provide trainings that can equip people with the right knowledge and resources. The center offers trainings such as Mental Health First Aid and QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer). 

     “Events like these are impactful and curiosity leads a person to find out why there are flags. This helps educate and inform the people,” said Severson. 

Suicide is a sensitive topic for many, which causes stigma around the topic because it can be difficult for people to talk about it. 

     “Starting a conversation and talking openly about [suicide] takes the power away from this hidden secret. When it’s out in the open, we can work with it. Being open-minded and able to ask the question as well as pointing them in the right direction is important,” said Severson. 

     Some of the resources available include the Student Counseling Center, where students can request different services like counseling and group therapy. Further, Coyote Care is USD’s 24/7 clinic support line, which is staffed by professionals, giving students access to immediate help during crises.  The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a nationwide network that offers 24/7 help that also provides support. 

     “This particular population [college students] is an important population because they are at a very transitional period, where they can experience many changes. It’s good to help students build kind of like a toolbox to deal with things,” said Severson.