On behalf of the directors and general members of University Union, I would like to express what an honor it was to be involved with last week’s event featuring author and blogger Frank Warren of PostSecret.

Foremost in our thoughts is the courageous individuals who openly expressed their personal stories dealing with such topics as sex, suicide, self-identity, and the loss of friends and family. Sharing intimate narratives in such a public manner was not merely brave, it had a lasting impact on each of the 1,500 attendees with whom these experiences were so graciously shared. We should also be proud of the entire audience and the support it offered. As busy college students, it is all too easy for us to become wrapped up in our own lives, failing to perceive the problems of others. However, the overwhelming support shown by those in attendance at the PostSecret event reminds us that being Orange means more than just rooting for an athletic team. It means being a part of a community in which we care for one another, where everyone is welcome and where no one’s suffering should go unnoticed.

In light of some of the issues raised and emotions stirred at the PostSecret event, I would like to remind the Syracuse University community that resources are available for your support. The following is just a brief list of the many avenues through which individuals may seek information and counseling:

– Those experiencing emotional, personal or mental health difficulties are encouraged to seek help at the Syracuse University Counseling Center, which is located at 200 Walnut Place and can be reached at 315-443-4715. The Counseling Center is available 24/7 for confidential support and emergency counseling, at no charge to SU and State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry students. More information can be found at counselingcenter.syr.edu.

– Anyone who is a victim of sexual assault can seek confidential support through the university’s R.A.P.E. Center, which is located at 111 Waverly Ave. and can be reached 24/7 at 315-443-7273. Advocates can inform you of medical and legal options and, if you wish, can accompany you to receive further attention and care. If you have been sexually assaulted and you do not feel safe, or if you have a serious injury, call the Department of Public Safety at 315-443-2224 or at 711 from campus phones, dial #SU from a cell phone, or call the police at 911. More information can be found at students.syr.edu/rapecenter.

– In addition, there are several outlets for individuals seeking counseling and support, based on their own beliefs, identities or cultural connections. Those seeking religious guidance can find resources through the diverse array of student groups and clergy members at Hendricks Chapel, which can be reached by phone at 315-443-2901 or online at hendricks.syr.edu. The LGBT Resource Center provides a safe and welcoming environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and straight-allied members of the SU community, and is located at 750 Ostrom Ave. or on the Web at lgbt.syr.edu. Also, a variety of resources are available to SU students from around the world at the Center for International Services, which is located at 310 Walnut Place or online at international.syr.edu.

Finally, one of the most powerful sources of comfort, support and guidance in the SU community is, quite simply, each other. If you feel depressed or lonely, or if you just have a secret, you are not alone. Your friends and fellow students are always available to listen and to provide a helping hand. No matter how isolated you may feel, you can always reach out to another student or a trusted faculty member. At the same time, those among us who do not experience depression or thoughts of suicide should always be receptive and understanding of those who do. In the days and weeks following the PostSecret event, let each and every one of us endeavor to sustain the supportive environment felt that evening. Let us not so much seek just to be consoled, but to console; to be understood, as well as to understand; to be loved, and to love each other.

Andrew Beyda

President of University Union

 

Published on October 25, 2010 at 12:00 pm