Hampton University is intensifying its mental health efforts as suicide rates continue climbing among African American youth and college-age adults nationwide. The institution’s Student Counseling Center is leading awareness campaigns and expanding prevention resources during September’s Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month.

Hampton responds to alarming national mental health statistics

Suicide became the third leading cause of death for Black young people ages 10-24 in 2021, according to national health data. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reported an estimated 1.5 million suicide attempts and more than 49,000 lives lost to suicide in 2023 alone.

These statistics reflect a growing public health crisis that particularly affects African American communities. Hampton University recognizes the urgent need for culturally competent mental health resources and prevention strategies tailored to Black students’ specific experiences and challenges.

President Darrell Williams emphasized that mental health deserves equal attention to physical health within the university community. The institution positions itself as a supportive family environment where every community member receives recognition, value and comprehensive support during difficult times.

University expands culturally relevant wellness programming

Hampton has established partnerships to provide culturally appropriate mental health resources, including the SheCare Wellness Pods collaboration with the Boris L. Henson Foundation and Kate Spade New York Foundation. These initiatives expand access to wellness tools designed specifically for the needs of Black students.

Psychology major Anna Winslow serves as President of the Peer Counselors and SheCare Wellness Pod Student Assistant. She describes the wellness pods as creative resources that emphasize self-care as essential rather than selfish behavior.

The Peer Counselors program extends the Student Counseling Center’s reach through peer-based therapeutic support. These student leaders provide programming, individual support, workshops and community service activities designed to normalize mental health conversations on campus.

Multiple factors contribute to increased suicide risk

Research identifies numerous factors that elevate suicide risk among African American students. These include racial discrimination, mental health stigma, systemic barriers to care, financial strain, medical system distrust, limited culturally competent providers and academic pressures.

Hampton University works to address these challenges through several approaches. The institution ensures access to culturally competent mental health professionals while expanding wellness initiatives across campus.

The university also emphasizes peer-led programs that encourage openness and mutual support among students. This approach recognizes that students often feel more comfortable discussing mental health concerns with peers who share similar experiences and backgrounds.

Counseling Center offers comprehensive prevention training

The Student Counseling Center provides free, evidence-based mental health training programs for students, faculty and staff. These include SafeTalk, Mental Health First Aid and ASSIST Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training sessions.

Outreach programming includes residence hall discussions, educational workshops and specialized training designed to reduce mental health stigma. These initiatives aim to equip the campus community with practical tools for recognizing and responding to mental health crises.

Director Kristie Norwood describes mental health as a journey rather than a destination, emphasizing that no one should navigate these challenges alone. The center positions itself to meet students wherever they are in their mental health journey.

September events promote campus mental health awareness

The Counseling Center has scheduled multiple awareness events throughout September to highlight national resources and promote open dialogue. September 8 marks 988 Day of Action, encouraging campus community members to wear teal or purple while promoting the national crisis hotline.

National Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 features resource tables across campus to distribute information and connect students with available support services. The month concludes with a LetsTalkHU Fireside Chat on September 24, featuring guest speakers and resource vendors.

Suicide Prevention and Outreach Coordinator Jasmine Burgos emphasizes that suicide prevention requires collaborative effort across the entire campus community. The center aims to empower Hampton family members with tools needed to support each other effectively.

University provides multiple crisis intervention options

Students experiencing mental health crises during business hours can contact the Student Counseling Center directly at 757-727-5617. The center operates Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM with trained professionals available for immediate support.

After-hours and weekend emergencies have several response options, including calling 911, visiting the nearest emergency room or contacting Hampton University Police Department at 757-727-5666 for connection with on-call counselors.

The HopeByTheSea initiative represents the Counseling Center’s commitment to enhancing student experiences through curated mental wellness spaces. This program provides tools and resources designed to empower the Hampton community in supporting those facing mental health challenges.

Hampton maintains strong academic and research reputation

Hampton University holds Carnegie R2 research designation and national recognition for pioneering work in atmospheric science, cancer treatment and aerospace research. The institution generates $530 million annual economic impact across Virginia while serving as an innovation and workforce development engine.

U.S. News & World Report ranks Hampton among the top 10 HBCUs, while Money Magazine recently named it one of the Best Colleges in America. Coastal Virginia Magazine honored the university as the Best Private College in the region.

Founded in 1868, Hampton serves as a close-knit scholarly community representing nearly every state and 32 territories. The institution’s legacy emphasizes empowerment and education while fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and global citizenship among students preparing for leadership roles.