MONROE, La. (KNOE) – Representatives from the Children’s Coalition of Northeast Louisiana came to the University of Louisiana Monroe for a training titled “Women Taking Flight: Signs of Suicide” on October 30.

“I touch many students in different ways and so I want to make sure I have the tools I need to make sure their mental health is a priority for them,” said Dr. Leigh Hersey, associate professor at ULM. .

Dr. Hersey said she came to the training to learn how to help her students.

“I hope to be able to communicate better with our students, recognize those warning signs and make sure I’m accessible and communicate with them,” Dr. Hersey said.

During the training, faculty and staff were able to learn how to recognize the signs of suicide and depression and how to deal with them when someone is struggling.

Dr. Hersey recalled one of the statements made during the training that stood out to him the most.

“One of the instructors said we need to explain to the students that if we were in their shoes, we would need help,” Dr. Hersey said.

Jan Daniels is the Youth Development Coordinator for the Children’s Coalition and also directs the Signs of Suicide program.

The team travels the region to train middle and high school students on the warning signs of suicide and what to watch for.

Daniels explained why it is important to advocate for student mental health.

“They may be away from home for the first time. They may be alone. They may be suffering from the stress of upcoming midterms or finals, and we just want to make sure they know what to do and how to get the help they need,” Daniels said.

Dr. Hersey explained how she plans to open the line of communication with her students in the future.

“Make sure we have time in my office to discuss these issues and have these conversations,” Dr. Hersey said.

If you know someone who is struggling, call Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or text “talk” to 741-741.

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