Tampa Implements New Suicide Prevention Measures Following Campus Tragedies
In Tampa, Florida, the University of South Florida (USF) has introduced a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing suicide prevention protocols on campus. This response comes in light of three on-campus suicides since the fall of 2022, with the latest incident occurring in spring 2023. Joseph Puccio, the director of the Student Health & Wellness Center, emphasized the urgency behind these steps to better support the student body.
What Are the New Initiatives?
Among the measures implemented, USF has newly appointed Rachel Gilmore as the coordinator for suicide prevention at the Counseling Center. This role was established with additional funding from the university, aimed at strengthening existing support systems. Scott Strader, the director of the USF Tampa Counseling Center, stated, “This position allows us to enhance and grow our suicide prevention program.”
Furthermore, Strader reported that the Counseling Center has expanded its staff from 16 to 20 members, with plans for another hire in January 2024. This increase in personnel is expected to reduce the wait time for students seeking counseling. “Any student calling us today can typically get an appointment within a day or two,” Strader noted.
Training and Resources for the Community
To further bolster support, the Counseling Center has introduced a “suicide gatekeeper” training program known as Campus Connect, which will now be available to all faculty, staff, and students at USF. This training focuses on recognizing signs of potential self-harm and provides guidance on how to refer students to appropriate resources.
Enhancements to Support Services
The Student Health & Wellness Center is also working to improve its crisis response capabilities. The center recently hired a second case manager to assist students in mental health emergencies without the need for transfers, which had previously created delays due to the physical relocation of facilities.
Efforts to Promote Positive Messaging
In an effort to create a more supportive atmosphere, the Center for Student Well-Being has added motivational signs around campus, particularly in front of on-campus parking garages. These signs bear messages such as, “Your life has meaning and purpose,” intended to promote positive reinforcement among students.
Current Challenges and Future Plans
While some measures have been introduced, USF has decided not to add additional physical barriers around buildings to prevent such tragedies. The most recent on-campus death occurred from an upper floor of the Interdisciplinary Sciences building, highlighting the complexity of implementing physical safeguards.
Despite these ongoing challenges, Puccio expressed hope that more strategies will emerge in the near future. “I’m continuing to look for different ways to help students, with potential new initiatives possibly available in the spring,” he said.
Resources for Students in Crisis
Students facing mental health challenges are encouraged to seek help. For anyone contemplating suicide or in need of immediate assistance, calling or texting 988 connects them with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, offering crucial support and guidance.
