By: Madelynn Loring, Staff Writer
On March 25, Regis’s chapter of Active Minds hosted a Mental Health Summit to provide students with insight and resources into mental health struggles on campus. As part of this event, several speakers came to share their insights on mental health advocacy, one of whom was Abraham Sculley, a speaker and author who focuses on the stigma and resources surrounding mental illness. Here are some thoughts he shared about his mental health journey and his experiences on Regis’s campus.
Can you explain what you talked about at Regis University?
My presentation focused on suicide prevention and how students can support their peers who may be in crisis. I also shared my personal experience battling with depression and the journey I have been on to overcome stigma and prioritize my mental health. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 15-44 in Colorado. However, statistics show that 67% of young adults will first tell a friend they are feeling suicidal before telling anyone else. As I shared in my presentation, suicide prevention starts with identifying the warning signs and then being courageous enough to ask, "are you thinking about suicide?"
As a speaker focusing on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, what did you think about this event on campus?
Across the country, students are asking for mental health support, whether it is increased access to counseling support or safe spaces for conversations about mental health. When institutions make an effort to put on events like this, it shows that the administration is interested in setting their students up for success. That makes me happy. What I know to be true is that success has everything to do with supporting the whole student. Academic achievement doesn't come when the focus is solely on academics. Instead, it happens when the approach to student support is holistic.
How often do you speak at events like these? What was unique about your experience at Regis?
I speak on campuses at least twice a month. COVID-19 has expanded our ability to reach students who are not able to attend an event like this in-person, so I've had plenty of opportunities to connect with students virtually. The difference between other campuses and my experience at Regis is that I saw a hunger and passion from students to advocate for themselves and support their peers. I received thoughtful questions from students that allowed me to see that Regis is going in the right direction when it comes to advocating for mental health and general awareness on campus.
What is it like doing presentations about mental health and suicide prevention, especially when sharing your own personal experiences with others?
I understand that it requires a level of vulnerability to stand in front of people sharing my journey through mental health recovery. It is not easy to talk about suicide, but it is necessary. When we are bold enough to share our stories and have honest conversations about the challenges students are experiencing, then it makes a lasting impact on those who listen. I love advocating, especially for those suffering in silence. I've been speaking since 2016, and it never gets old to connect with others in a meaningful way.
Do you have any advice for students interested in learning more about these topics or even pursuing a similar path?
Yes, I would advise them to get involved with their Active Minds chapter on campus. I also have a podcast, Unlearn The Lies. On the show, I share tools and education necessary to unlearn the lies about mental health and embrace the truth about what it means to be human. Another great resource to learn more about mental health, mental illness, and how students can support their mental health and their peers is Active Minds, at activeminds.org. For students interested in mental health advocacy and pursuing a similar path, I would invite them to apply to join my team at Speaks 2 Inspire (speaks2inspire.com) the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence, as an intern. We are eager to partner with others passionate about our mission to eradicate mental health stigma.
Is there anything else that you'd like to add or share?
I'd like to remind students that you don't have to be an expert to help a friend struggling with their mental health. The willingness to listen is a powerful tool and can save lives. Also, I'd love to connect with students on social media! My Instagram handle is @abrahamsculley.
To get informed about events like this and stay up to date on what Active Minds is doing on campus, you can follow them @activeminds_regis on Instagram!