Wisdom over weakness: Claflin offers mental health help

Lindsey Balbierz for NPR

While it might be easy to scroll past another awareness flyer regarding suicide, statistically the topic hits closer to home than many may think.

The suicide rate among Black youth has increased by 73% over the past two decades, according to a study published in 2019 by the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis. September as Suicide Prevention Month put emphasis on the problem and how to get help.

“We offer individual counseling sessions on campus, and we also partner with TimelyCare,” said Dr. Melissa Mullins, director of counseling and ADA services at Claflin. “Through TimelyCare, students can receive 12 free one-hour support (sessions) through TalkNow. If it’s 2 a.m. and you need to talk to someone, help is available.”

Mullins stresses the importance of mental health support that goes beyond advice to “stay strong” or “pray about it.”

“We need to create a culture that makes it okay to say, ‘I need help.’ That’s not weakness, that’s wisdom,” Mullins said.

“Many students wait until they’re in a crisis before reaching out,” she said. “But counseling can also be preventive. You don’t have to wait until you feel like you’re drowning.”

Claflin offers mental health resources and services: counseling, student groups and safe spaces. But the options are only helpful if students use them beyond times when everything is falling apart.

Here is a list of resources available for Claflin students:

• Claflin Counseling Center – in‑person support for everything from stress to grief. The office can vibe reached by phone at 803-535-5285
• TimelyCare – 24/7 online access when you need to talk or need immediate help.
• Student organizations like Mentally Me – you’re not alone; others understand.
• Academic Success Office – not just GPA help, emotional support through academic pressure.