The primary mission of the Office of Counseling Services is to serve as a valuable resource in helping students navigate through life's most challenging circumstances. We are dedicated to providing students with free, confidential, individual, and group counseling to address a range of psychological and emotional concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief, anger, and trauma. The Office of Counseling Services at Tougaloo College is dedicated to supporting the academic mission of the institution and promoting the holistic well-being of our students.
What to do when you know someone is considering suicide?
If you're concerned that someone you know may be contemplating suicide, here are steps you can take to provide crucial support:
1. Stay Calm and Approach Them: Approach the individual calmly and express your concern in a non-judgmental manner. Create a safe and open space for them to share their feelings.
2. Listen Actively: Allow the person to express their emotions without interruption. Show empathy and understanding, letting them know you genuinely care.
3. Ask Direct Questions: In a caring way, ask direct questions about their well-being. Avoiding euphemisms can help you better understand the severity of their thoughts.
4. Encourage Professional Help: Encourage them to seek professional help. Offer to assist in finding a therapist, counselor, or mental health professional. If immediate assistance is needed, call emergency services.
5. Stay Connected: Keep in regular contact with the person and continue offering support. A strong support system is crucial during difficult times.
6. Remove Means: If possible, work together to remove access to potential means of self-harm, such as medications or firearms.
7. Involve Trusted Individuals: Reach out to friends, family, or other trusted individuals who can provide additional support.
8. Educate Yourself: Learn more about suicide prevention and mental health. Understanding the challenges someone is facing can help you provide more effective support.
NOTE: Most, but not all, suicide attempts are preceded by a message that the person is considering suicide. This message could be direct ("I'm going to kill myself") or subtle (giving away possessions or referring to "not being around anymore.") Any message about suicide must be taken seriously.
Counseling Referral Form
Demographic Intake Form
Explanation of Rights
Kindly forward these forms to counselingsvcs@tougaloo.edu , and a counselor will promptly assist you in setting up an appointment time.
Other Counseling Resources
Help Lines
Mental Illness, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Alcohol/Drug Abuse and Tobacco Outline
Crisis Information
Call 911 or Campus Security at 601.977.7857 if immediate assistance is needed, especially if the situation is potentially life-threatening.
For non-emergency crises during office hours
Students and others who are concerned can contact the Office of Counseling Services at 601.977.7818 or in person at Jamerson Hall. Please let the receptionist know that the situation is urgent, and the counselor will be available to you as soon as possible.
Contact Information
The Office of Counseling & Accessibility Services
500 West County Line Road
Jamerson Hall
Tougaloo, MS 39174
Phone: 601.977.7818
Email: counselingsvcs@tougaloo.edu | adacompliance@tougaloo.edu