Fordham Sends Silence Packing

A glimpse at some of the display.

There are many reasons why I'm proud to be a Fordham Ram. We have excellent academics, a close-knit community, amazing volunteer and job opportunities, and one of the most beautiful campuses. Yesterday reminded me of all these things when staff and students participated in a suicide and mental health awareness campaign.



All across Eddie's, backpacks were strewn. Some of them had stories attached to them, detailing the lives of students lost to suicide. According to statistics, roughly 1,100 students successfully commit suicide per year. Each backpack laid down represented one of those lives. The display sent students wandering in spirals as they contemplated the worth of each individual story and took a moment to pause and reflect on the gravity of this very real problem. 

This demonstration was part of the campaign Send Silence Packing, promoted by a mental health awareness program called Active Minds. They go across the country with a two-fold purpose: spreading information and stories alike, to remind people that suicide is not just some background issue, and to encourage students to seek help when they are suffering.

An important statistic for students to consider.

In one week's time, Fordham will also be hosting a Mental Health Awareness Week consisting of a 5K, workshops, and more. I am proud to be part of a community where stigma regarding these topics are deconstructed and students are encouraged to take time out of their day to consider the value and beauty of life.

Fordham's Counseling Services can be found in the basement of O'Hare Hall. To schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please call (718) 817-3725.