By: Violeta Rocha, Staff Reporter

In commemoration of World Mental Health Day on Thursday, Oct.10, the CSUDH Student Health and Psychological Services is holding a series of events on campus this and next week designed to bring awareness of mental health-related issues, how to play a proactive role in recognizing and referring those who need help, and lowering the stigma around mental illness.

Laura Castillo, assistant to the director of the Student Health Center, said that although World Mental Health Day is a global effort, CSUDH President Thomas Parham is a strong supporter of educating and heightening awareness on this campus, which is one reason for the series of events.

 “One of the main things that [he] is interested in is making sure that our students are not just prepared, in terms of their education but also in terms of mental health resources and awareness,” Castillo said.

Today (Wednesday, Oct. 9), a Let’s Talk about Suicide Prevention discussion will be held in which interested people can learn how to identify someone who is suicidal, how to talk to them about it, and where to refer them to get professional health. It will be held in room 328 of the LSU and is from 5 p.m.-7 p.m.

Thursday, a mental health and well-being feast will be held in the Sculpture Garden from 4 p.m.- 6 p.m.,  where food will be offered, and strategies and techniques on how to manage stress and anxiety will be addressed. Also, on Thursday, you can show your support for mental health awareness by going to the Food Court in the LSU and wearing a provided green ribbon as part of the Go Green Ribbon Campaign.

Two events will be held next week. On Monday, Minds Matter at CSUDH, is an hour-long presentation beginning at 1 p.m. in front of the Student Health Center that will focus on educating, advocating and raising mental health awareness at the university.

Also, on Monday, the first of two two-day sessions of mental health and first aid training will be offered from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each session will teach participants how to help someone experiencing a mental health episode or crisis. The second day of training will be held Thursday, Oct. 17.  If participants cannot make it to both dates in October, they can complete their first aid training by returning in November for another two-day training session on Nov. 13 and Nov. 20. Upon successful completion, participants will obtain a three-certification as a mental health first aider. For more information, including how to register, contact Castillo at lcastilllo@csudh.edu.