Kevin Hines Speaker, Campus Events Spread Mental Health Awareness

IAN KAHLER
kahlerid@lopers.unk.edu

Depression is very common on college campuses across the United States, with 85 percent stating that at some point in their college career, they felt some form of anxiety or depression.

From Oct. 7-11, UNK supported and advocated for mental health during Mental Health Awareness Week. From therapy dogs on campus, to speaker Kevin Hines, a suicide survivor that spoke to campus and community members on Oct. 9, there were plenty of events for students to partake in.

Zach Carattini, a sophomore business administration major and an RA in Antelope Hall, believes these events are needed on a college campus. 

“A lot of people in our generation struggle with mental health,” Carattini said. “Having any exposure to mental health awareness is eye-opening and important for anyone struggling.” 

During the Kevin Hines speaker presentation, the audience turn-out was considerable.  Many UNK students and Kearney community members came to the Health and Sports Center to hear what Mr. Hines had to say about his harrowing journey since attempting to take his life in September of 2000. 

“What Kevin Hines had to say was so harrowing to listen to, but important to hear. It’s something that not a lot of people can come back from and share about,” said Thomas Prentice, a senior music performance major. “I think it’s highly important for UNK to put on these kinds of events that face serious life issues and allows students to know that you aren’t alone.”

UNK Counseling offers three free counseling sessions along with an admission session for those students on campus struggling with finals stress or need someone to talk to.

 “I think everybody should take advantage of what the UNK Counseling team offers for us,” Carattini said. “It’s a free resource that is paid with your student fees and it can be surprisingly helpful no matter how severe your mental health is.”

The Suicide National Hotline is 1-800-273-8255. “You Aren’t Alone, Confidential Help is available for free”