Did you know according to a recent study done by the Harris Poll, 60% of college students reported being diagnosed with a mental health condition by a professional with the most common afflictions being anxiety and depression?

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we recognize and support the ongoing mental health of our members. 67% of young adults tell a friend they are struggling mentally before consulting a medical professional according to Active Minds. Your brothers will confide in you and your support during trying times will likely stick with them throughout their lives.

Know the Signs

It’s not uncommon for someone to have a day where they don’t quite feel like themselves. But when days turn into weeks, there are a collection of symptoms that should raise concern. If you notice that a brother is no longer enjoying activities they once loved, no longer attending classes or social outings, becoming extremely angry or sad about a relationship in their life, disinterested to most things or making jokes or references about death or suicide; these are all common symptoms of depression and recognizing these things early can be enough to save a life. To learn more about the signs of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, and substance misuse, view this resource provided by BestColleges.

Be a Good Brother

If you notice negative changes in a brother’s behavior, try reaching out to them and performing a wellness check. Don’t be afraid to lend an ear to listen or a shoulder to cry on. Words of encouragement can show a person you’re a source of support, but refrain from telling them to “cheer up” or “snap out of it,” this can often be seem as disingenuous.

Know the Resources

Many of the colleges and universities that our chapters call home provide counseling services for students who seek them. Knowing your university’s mental health resources and facilities can provide you with the maximum opportunity to support your brothers during times of crisis.

Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help/Inform Your Advisors

The responsibility of caring for your brothers does not fall on you alone. If you are concerned about a brother’s health and wellbeing, don’t be afraid to contact your Chapter Advisor, your Fraternity/Sorority Life Advisor or a trusted alumnus to get proper access to any professionals you may need to support them.

Below you’ll find several resources that can be an asset to those struggling with their mental health.

• https://sigtau.org/counseling/
• https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month
• https://www.addictions.com/college-student-mental-health-resources/
• https://www.onlinecolleges.net/for-students/mental-health-resources/

If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Starting July 16, 2022, you can simply dial 988 to be connected to trained counselors. For emotional crisis support, contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

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ABOUT SIGMA TAU GAMMA FRATERNITY

Founded at the University of Central Missouri on June 28, 1920, Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity celebrated 100 years of brotherhood in 2020. In the last 102 years, the organization has called 198 campuses home and has more than 75,000 initiated members. With a current presence on 63 campuses from coast to coast, our membership includes more than 2,500 undergraduate men. The Headquarters, which is home to the Fraternity, Foundation, and WPN Housing Company, is located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Visit https://sigtau.org for additional information.