To return to Convening's homepage, click here.
To return to Convening XXIX's Table of Contents, click here.
Joshua P. Bias, MS
Andrew P. Smith, MA
University of Oregon Counseling & Testing Center
University of Oregon Men's Center
Suicide rates on college campuses have received increasing media attention in recent years prompting the evaluation of
suicide prevention efforts. This presentation will address the increasing problem of suicide among college men. We will
begin with an overview of suicide among college men including facts, myths, and statistics. We will address such
questions as why is suicide such a problem for men and what factors put them at risk. In doing so, we will examine the
concept of masculinity and traditional male gender role socialization. These constructs contribute to poor health
behaviors and psychological stress, which are further exacerbated by media influence. We will then discuss the various
obstacles to men's mental health and to help seeking in general. For example, perceived invulnerability and the need to
conceal vulnerability are prominent factors preventing men from seeking help, which increases the rate of depression
and other mental health problems. In addition, we will explore how traditional forms of treatment are less likely to
appeal to men and create further obstacles to their seeking help.
We will next discuss issues related to suicide prevention. We will begin by identifying the most common warning
signs. We will then discuss other risk factors including behaviors, emotions and thoughts, and situations. While most of
these signs are universal, we will pay special attention to those most relevant to men. This will be followed by a
discussion of how to help someone who is suicidal, while highlighting ways to help men in particular. This discussion
will include intervention strategies, tips for working with college men, and ways to market mental health services to
men. The presentation will conclude with a discussion of the role and mission of the UO Men's Center. The Men's
Center strives to promote awareness of the emotional, physical, and social health of men. We will discuss how the U of
O Men's Center attempts to change the culture by reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health services,
enhancing social networks, and enhancing mental health literacy.
To return to Convening's homepage, click here.
To return to Convening XXIX's Table of Contents, click here.