Submission: UCLA administration should release statement on recent campus death
By Brooke Houser
Oct. 30, 2016 5:50 p.m.
If you are reading this, you have probably heard news of the death that recently occurred on campus. However, what you haven’t heard is a proper statement from UCLA administration addressing this tragedy.
I have been impatiently awaiting this statement, and last Wednesday I decided to take action and contact the university police. They relayed to me that UCLA has all of the information on the event, but they didn’t think UCLA would be providing any more information to students. As a mental health advocate and a proud Bruin, I find the lack of action taken by campus officials in relation to this tragedy very disappointing.
On Oct. 21, Active Minds at UCLA hosted a suicide prevention display. This display was planned in advance of the recent tragedy, but was modified to fit the needs of the campus at the time. During this display, many students came up and inquired about recent events. They asked questions like, “Is this about the suicide?” and, “What exactly is going on?” Many students expressed confusion and frustration at the fact that we are being left in the dark by the administration. Mental health leaders like myself are left wondering whether it is appropriate to release statements of support with so little information.
Although it is completely understandable that UCLA keep the student’s information and details about their death confidential, it is only fair that students are made aware of the situation so that they may process and grieve.
Campus officials may believe that reporting on a suicide could lead to future occurrences. However, I believe that if UCLA properly acknowledged the death and provided the appropriate resources, it would send the message to those who may be suicidal that their campus cares deeply about them. UCLA is an amazing university and has more than capable counseling and psychological services. It is important that we advertise these resources, and more importantly, express the truth that each and every student on this campus is valued and cared for. Too often the topic of suicide is swept under the rug because it is a difficult conversation to have. This only leads to deeper stigma and fewer students reaching out for help.
I’d also like to tell any student who may be questioning his or her worth that this campus needs you. Help is available to you no matter what your circumstances may be. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, please dial the 24-hour campus crisis line at (310) 825-0768 or contact UCLA Counseling and Psychological Services immediately to schedule an appointment.
It is important to remember that although UCLA is a challenging and competitive environment, there are ways to balance school work and self-care. Some simple self-care activities include having your favorite snack or drink while studying, journaling, or taking five to 10 minutes before you go to sleep to think about the positive things that occurred in your day. Taking time for yourself does not make you an inferior student; in fact, there is extensive research that suggests students who engage in self-care achieve more.
Despite the lack of vocalization by campus administration, UCLA is well-equipped to assist students’ mental health needs. If you are in need of mental health care or grief counseling, please contact CAPS.
Houser is a third-year psychology student and the executive director of Active Minds.
