DeKALB – NIU is set to host the Send Silence Packing display Tuesday in the MLK Commons. The display will feature over 1,000 backpacks from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to represent the number of college students who die by suicide each year. Many of the backpacks have been donated by families who have lost a loved one to suicide. Students are free to walk around and read the stories attached to the backpacks.

Active Minds, a nonprofit organization that works to improve a more inclusive work environment, is presenting this event to educate students on the importance of mental health. Alison Malmon founded the program two decades ago following the suicide of her older brother Brian after his depression was left untreated.

For nearly two decades Active Minds have been traveling the country to encourage young teens and adults to not be afraid to speak about mental health and to seek help if needed. NIU will host a Community Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m that day to inform students about the mental health services NIU has to offer.

Anyone who is struggling or doesn’t know how to help a student can call Counseling and Consultation Services at 815-753-1206. The line is available 24 hours a day.