Alcorn State University will host “988 Day” on Sept. 8, 2025, in the James L. Bolden Student Union Ballroom, in collaboration with CONTACT the Crisis Line, the 988 Lifeline. The national initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and emphasizing the critical importance of mental health and suicide prevention.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness of this urgently important crisis. Between 2012 and 2022, more than 500,000 lives were lost to suicide across the United States. Alarming trends continue, with suicide rates rising nationally and in most states. 

Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. While common, they should not be considered normal and often signal more serious underlying issues. The need for such initiatives on college campuses is highlighted by recent statistics:

  • Approximately 1 in 5 college students (20%) experienced serious psychological distress in 2024, according to BestColleges.com.
  • Over one-third of students (35%) have been diagnosed with anxiety, with the number of students screening positive for anxiety symptoms increasing between 2013-14 and 2023-24 (ACENET.edu).
  • Depression affects a significant portion of the student population, with around 25% to 30% of college students having been diagnosed with the condition.

Shavaya Harlson, a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant and Kinesiotherapist, will serve as guest speaker, bringing a unique blend of experience to her role as Outreach Coordinator. She earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling in May 2020, enabling her to serve as a licensed professional counselor. 

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, is an expansive network of over 200 local and state-funded crisis contact centers. Counselors at these centers answer calls, chats, and texts from individuals experiencing emotional distress. She currently serves as outreach coordinator with CONTACT the Crisis Line.

“At Alcorn State University, Counseling Services is committed to educating and empowering our students and the broader community,” said Yolanda T. Robinson, DPC, LPC-S, NCC, CMHT, director of Counseling Services. “We are here to provide support, resources, and hope during life’s most difficult moments. Whether you’re struggling or supporting someone who is, know that help is available.”

Robinson added, “Let’s work together to break the stigma, promote healing, and save lives.”

For more information, contact Yolanda T. Robinson, DPC, LPC-S, NCC, CMHT Director of Counseling Services, at 601-877-6284 or [email protected].