New Britain, Connecticut – The National Honor Society (NHS)
students of CREC’s Academy of Science & Innovation organized a series of
impactful activities during September, in recognition of National Suicide
Awareness Month. Their efforts aimed to raise awareness about mental health
challenges and support suicide prevention, culminating in a successful
fundraiser that generated $500 for the American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention (AFSP).
Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among teens in
the United States, with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety,
and isolation having worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the
importance of addressing this ongoing crisis, the students sought to engage
their peers in activities that fostered connection and emphasized that help is
always available through resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
As part of the awareness campaign, NHS hosted a "Teal and
Purple" day, during which students and faculty dressed in teal and purple—the
colors representing suicide prevention. In addition, NHS members sold bracelets
with the message: "I wear Purple and Teal for someone who meant the
world to me."
One of the most meaningful projects was the creation of a
school-wide paper chain. Each student at the Academy was invited to write a
positive message or affirmation on a strip of teal or purple paper, which was
then linked together to form a chain that now hangs prominently in the school’s
entrance. The chain serves as a powerful symbol of community support, reminding
students that they are never alone and can always find understanding among
their peers.
NHS members concluded the month by raising $500, which will be
donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to support the foundation’s
efforts to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.
“Our goal was to create a lasting visual reminder for our school
community and raise awareness about the importance of mental health,” said
Stacy O’Donnell, an NHS Advisor and English teacher at the Academy of Science
& Innovation. “The support from both students and staff has been
overwhelming, and we’re proud to contribute to such a meaningful cause.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is always
available. Call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential
support, available 24/7, or visit afsp.org to
learn more about suicide prevention and available resources.