On Saturday, Sept. 24, the Lock Haven men’s and women’s cross country teams will host the 2022 LHU Invitational. The meet will feature over 40 teams from nine different states, and includes NCAA Division I, II and III teams, along with several club, community college programs, and NAIA squads.
In partnership with the Lock Haven Department of Athletics, the Lock Haven Athletics Social Justice Task Force, and The Haven’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the cross country teams will do all they can to recognize and support National Suicide Prevention Month while raising awareness for the cause. Teams and individuals entered in the meet, along with spectators will be presented a blue and purple ribbon, and will be encouraged to wear it to help raise awareness for this cause.
As stated by the National Alliance on Mental Illness:
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month —a time to raise awareness of this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic. We use this month to shift public perception, spread hope and share vital information to people affected by suicide. Our goal is ensuring that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.
Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.
