NEW YORK—Suicide. It can be a difficult word to hear.
A conversation about how to broach the subject with those considering ending their lives took place at Bronx Community College (BCC) Tuesday.
Although college is a social environment, students are under unique pressures there.
“Students feel they can’t live up to the expectations that they have, or their parents have, or their professors have for them,” said Esther Levy, a clinical and social worker with BCC’s Psychological Services, adding that most students are also under financial pressure these days.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for college students, according to the Samaritans of New York.
While the conversation centered on students, all New Yorkers are likely facing similar pressures in the fast-paced city and lean economic times, according to panelists.
About 500 suicides are committed in New York City every year, according to the city’s Department of Health.
