A recent poll by the National Mental Health Association and the Jed Foundation revealed more adolescents’ deaths are caused by suicide than any other medical illness.

The data is coupled with a study by the American College Health Association which found 22.1 percent of students are “so depressed [they] could not function.”

Finding a solution to this problem lies in mental health’s stigma, said Fred Markowitz, an associate professor of sociology.

“There is no doubt that there is a prevalent stigma for seeking help – and students are not exempt from that stigma which prevents people from getting the help they need,” Markowitz said.

An alternative, however, offered by the Counseling and Student Development Center may be the key to ending the crisis.

Barb Wired is an outlet for psychological questions students are faced with.

“Most people, when they are faced with a problem, do not want to run to a therapist,” said Rick Long, a staff psychologist who coordinates the site. “Instead they try and solve it themselves or with family and friends.”

Site setup unconventional

While most of the questions posted on the site are centered on stress and relationship problems, the site’s mission statement stated it also will “answer questions of a psychological nature.”

“We try to really hear the question, not just the words but the feelings behind it,” Long said.

Long said he felt the confidential setup of Barb Wired attracts many people who would otherwise feel uncomfortable talking about problems.

If a person has thought about hurting themselves they should contact a professional, Long said.

“If you’ve had a dilemma and your efforts to solve it haven’t worked, then maybe it’s time to give therapy a try,” Long said.

Markowitz agreed and said there is a certain stigma about therapy.

“I think that because students are more educated and generally come from a good background, they are more willing to seek counseling,” he said.

Students interested in submitting a question or read posted answers can visit the site at www.stuaff.niu.edu/csdc/BarbWired.