presents
let’s talk. (drugs sex mentalhealth)
STAFF PHOTO BY SHAWN PAIK
letter from the editor Dear Readers, Sometimes as I walk down the street, I’m thankful to be surrounded by the city’s energy. Other times, attending a demanding university in New York’s chaos is suffocating. We talk a lot about balancing our lives in college — social life, academics and sleep — in an effort to preserve our sanity. But striking a balance isn’t always easy. Even with our best attempt, we can’t plan for tragedies such as losing a friend, and that’s what makes this time of our lives so challenging. I conceived of this issue to help battle the pendulum of feelings that come with being a student in New York. This issue contains advice on how to manage stress and stay mentally healthy, as well as tips on safe drug use and sexual health. With these tools, navigating life can be done with more ease and confidence. I have good days and I have bad days. But when I’m feeling down, I find solace in my network of family and friends, and I use the resources around me. I implore you to do the same and use this issue as one of those resources. After you’re done reading these pages, I hope you realize that no matter how isolated this island may feel, you are not alone.
kavish harjai
web managing editor
drugs 04
psychedelic drug chart: types, legality and risks of this family of drugs prescription drug chart: what to know about common prescription medications MYTH: common drug beliefs debunked opinion: society should be wary of prescription drug use
sex 06
CONSENT: NYU announces new sexual misconduct policies birth CONTROL chart: contraception options for safe sex SHOPs: sex shops that offer a comfortable environment opinion: a discussion of hookup culture and its effects
mental health 08 suicide: An analysis of nyu’s past student suicides and their impact disorder chart: signs, treatments and ways to help friends cope with common mental disorders stressor: frequent triggers of anxiety and how to ease them breather: relaxation spots to escape stressful atmospheres opinion: mental illness is still stigmatized, affects college students
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Wsn does not endorse self-harm, unsafe sex or the use of drugs or alcohol.
]
drugs 4
Washington Square news | drugs, sex and mental health | nyunews.com
staff photo by shawn paik
prescription
psychedelic
Xanax
Psychedelic drugs function by distorting the drug user’s sense of reality. This can happen by producing sensations, including images and sounds that do not exist. For some, this experience is pleasurable, though others may find it disturbing, and it is hard to know what type of reaction a person will have on hallucinogens. While WSN does not endorse the use of these drugs, if you choose to use a psychedelic drug, you should always take precautions. Make sure that you are in a safe and welcoming environment and are in a good mental place. Hallucinogens can intensify any negative or anxious feelings. Furthermore, be with a friend who is sober. They can calm you down or call for help if necessary.
prescribed for | Acute anxiety, panic attacks, off-label use for sleep drug type | Benzodiazepine, an anti-anxiety medication symptoms | Produces a feeling of relaxation, perhaps sleepiness.
If used recreationally, it will likely lead to a euphoric feeling. signs of overdose | Individuals become lethargic, enter a deep sleep and are difficult to rouse. A serious overdose can occur when combined with alcohol or another respiratory suppressant such as oxycontin. difficulties of abusing this medication | An individual can become physically dependent on this medication and others like it. He or she will experience physical withdrawal symptoms if use is abruptly stopped. Individuals may develop a psychological dependence if they regularly use benzodiazepines, and they are gradually ess able to contend with minor stress. safety concerns | Key concerns arise if users drive while under the influence, or if they combine the drug with other respiratory and breathing suppressants.
Adderall prescribed for | Attention deficit disorder drug type | Amphetamine salt, in the general family of stimulants symptoms | Euphoria, grandiosity, high level of energy, less need
for sleep and feeling ultra-focused signs of overdose | Irritability, anxiety, suspiciousness or paranoia and disorganized or racing thoughts difficulties of abusing this medication | An individual can develop a physical dependency on amphetamines and, if use is abruptly stopped, may become highly irritable, agitated and exhibit paranoid or psychotic behavior. Regular yet unmonitored use of amphetamines can lead to mood swings and periods of depression. safety concerns | Amphetamines are potentially highly addictive, and individuals’ judgment can become severely impaired.
Oxycontin prescribed for | Pain relief drug type | Synthetic opiate symptoms | A mix of worry-free relaxation and euphoria is common.
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD/Acid) what the drug is | The drug is made from ergot, which is a grain fungus that grows on rye. LSD is ingested in a liquid form, either on food or on a blotter piece of paper. common dosage | The threshold is 25 micrograms, with a common dosage being 50 to 150 micrograms. legality | Schedule I substance meaning it has been deemed to have a high potential for abuse and has no legitimate medical use in treatment. Punishable for five to 40 years in prison for first offense of trafficking less than 10 grams and 10 years to life for second offense. health risks | While under the influence, the user is at risk of making poor decisions and hurting himself or others. The drug can also cause panic, as well as long term depression or anxiety as a result of a “bad trip.”
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) what the drug is | Comes from two plants in the Amazon, Anadenanthera or Yopo. It is smoked or ingested orally or, less commonly, it is inhaled or injected. When smoked, the bowl is often padded with marijuana to make the DMT easier to smoke. common dosage | 20 to 40 mg when smoked. legality | Schedule I substance. health risks | Increased blood pressure and pulse rate, sense of overwhelming fear due to loss of sense of “reality,” overly intense experiences, hard on the lungs.
Individuals describe feeling very relaxed and very happy at the same time. signs of overdose | Lethargy, decreased heart rate and decreased respiration difficulties of abusing this medication | Oxycontin is highly addictive and has a rapid development of tolerance. Withdrawal from this medicine results in severe physical symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, severe muscle cramping and body temperature dysregulation. There is a high danger of accidental overdose, which increases the risk of death. safety concerns | Highly dangerous for its physically addictive properties, especially when combined with other respiratory suppressants. Difficulty procuring oxycontin or other prescription opiates often causes individuals to turn to purchasing street opiates, such as heroin.
what the drug is | A fungus ingested and converted to psilocin in the stomach, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream and delivered to the brain. common dosage | 1 to 2.5 grams. legality | Schedule I substance, and distribution without a DEA license can lead to 20 years in prison for a first offense. health risks | Vomiting and not being able to stop vomiting. Some people will also experience more severe anxiety, frightening images and paranoia.
COURTESY OF PHILLIP A. SEIBEL, M.D.
COURTESY OF STUDENTS FOR SENSIBLE DRUG POLICY
Psilocybin (a compound found in “Shrooms”)
nyunews.com | drugs, sex and mental health | Washington Square news
5
Top drug myths debunked
Despite educational programs like Drug Abuse Resistance Education and AlcoholEdu, there is still confusion surrounding drug use. Health flyers sometimes contradict what we hear from our friends or see on television. Here are the top five myths about drug use, and what you actually need to know:
bryna shuman
staff photos by shawn paik
Prescription drugs are not bad for you
Casual drug use will not hurt you
It would be safe to assume that any drug a doctor can prescribe is safe to take. When a doctor prescribes a drug to someone, however, they are familiar with that person’s medical history. Taking a drug that was not specifically prescribed to you, or taking your own prescription drug in excess, can have negative consequences.
While occasional drug use is less risky than heavy drug use, it can still cause problems. Drugs alter the signals your brain sends to your body, which can result in difficulty breathing and heart problems. These adverse effects can actually happen the first time you use a drug or any time after, no matter how infrequent your use.
Marijuana is a dangerous drug Studies have proven that pot is less harmful than hard drugs such as heroin or crystal meth, and it is also less harmful to the human body than tobacco and alcohol. Heavy use can still hurt, however. Marijuana contains the same carcinogens that are present in tobacco smoke, and heavy pot smokers can be at risk for the same respiratory health concerns that plague cigarette smokers.
Marijuana is not addictive It is true that marijuana is less addictive than other controlled substances, including tobacco and alcohol. However, it is still possible to become dependent on it. On average, 9 percent of people who use marijuana on a regular basis will form an addiction to it.
Using Adderall is not addictive Adderall is a Schedule II drug, which means it has a high risk for potential dependency. While some people take Adderall with no addictive side effects, others can easily get hooked. Even using it on occasion to finish a paper or study for an exam can increase your risk of becoming dependent. COURTESY OF STUDENTS FOR SENSIBLE DRUG POLICY
Prescription medication not only solution to mental illness
According to a recent governmental survey, 18.5 percent of legal adults battled with a mental illness in 2013. Despite increased discussion about mental health in recent years, individuals struggling with biological predispositions still have to battle society’s scorn. Some doctors exacerbate their patients’ situations by improperly medicating them, thereby perpetuating the overly simplistic conception of mental illness that renders it easily solved with medication. More than one in 10 Americans currently take some form of an antidepressant medication. While these numbers seemingly indicate that a shockingly large number of Americans battle a mental illness, they actually exemplify the inefficacy of current efforts to promote thoughtful
awareness of mental health. Rather than solely indicating that more people feel comfortable seeking treatment, the rising number of Americans taking medication for mental illness serves as an indicator of the fundamental misunderstanding of mental illness. A recent study elucidates this point with data showing 61.6 percent of Americans diagnosed with depression by a clinician fail to meet the criteria for diagnosis listed in the DSM-5. As more individuals have received false diagnoses, the number of medications prescribed has similarly risen. Although it certainly helps many individuals, the approach of mass diagnosis and thus mass prescription simply replaces the societal avoidance of discussing mental health with a reductionist ideology that medications can easily solve
mental health issues. This mentality of solving health problems with medication is even more problematic when combined with use of other drugs, particularly if habits are developed early in life. Although governmental statistics indicate a decrease in the abuse of opiate painkillers by high school seniors in recent years, the 15,000 deaths per year from opiate overdose reveals a culture of drug abuse aided by undiscerning doctors who dole out 136 million prescriptions for painkillers each year. And because addiction to opioid painkillers can lead to heroin use, opioid habits need preventative action. Culture in America causes problems for addressing drug abuse in college, because it designates college as a time of experimenta-
tion for unexplored activities, drugs included. The concept of college itself is intertwined with drinking and drugs — activities that, along with beginning to think about a career, supposedly help breach the gap between youth and adulthood. Additionally, the lack of emotional support and stress that often accompanies the daunting adjustment to college life present mental challenges for many and, combined with new freedom, can lead to serious drug abuse. Denying the inevitability of exposure to drugs in college is unrealistic. But as prescription drug abuse continues, doctors should consider the extent to which they enable the abuse, and society should question the ideology that promotes drug use to solve problems. dan moritz-rabson
sex 6
Washington Square news | drugs, sex and mental health | nyunews.com
Toy around in these local sex shops
Walking into a sex shop in Manhattan, one is typically faced with a colorful display of penis-shaped gag gifts. It’s not hard to find sex toys in the city, but not every erotica shop offers the refined experience that puts customers at ease. For those seeking a less intimidating environment to browse paraphernalia, New York presents plenty of affordable, high-quality boutiques to help spice up your sex life. Whether you’re in the market for a new vibrator or just want some helpful information from a knowledgeable staff member, the following boutiques offer all the necessary tools to explore your sexuality.
CICEK EREL
Sexual assault policy changes imminent
The university will announce new sexual misconduct policies on Sept. 30 that will include redefining consent, increased support services through the newly formed Center for Sexual Misconduct Support Services and increased community education and training.
Consent
CAS junior Joe Zelaskowski said consent needs to be clarified on campus for all genders. “There’s a lot of fear about the ambiguity of what consent is,” Zelaskowski said. NYU spokesman John Beckman said the new policy will have a clearer definition of consent that follows federal guidelines. “Consent will be defined as an affirmative agreement to engage in [a] specific sexual activity with another person, requiring an outward demonstration, through mutually understandable words or actions that each person is freely choosing to engage in a sexual activity,” Beckman said. The policy will also explain that consent requires more than just a simple yes from those involved. The current policy does not include language that explicitly defines consent, but says that engaging in a sexual act is consent unless there is an explicit no. CAS junior and president of the NYU Feminist Society Meghan Racklin said the affirmation policy is extremely important. “The wording of consent under the new sexual misconduct policy is a huge improvement over the previous policy,” Racklin said.
Center for Sexual Misconduct Support Services and Disciplinary Process
Students are encouraged to call the Department of Public Safety, the Student Health Center, the Title IX Coordinator, the Office of Community Standards or a campus official if they are assaulted. The new center will provide victims of sexual misconduct with additional services including medical and mental health, liaison with
law enforcement and assistance with housing accommodations or academic programs. The university’s policy on contacting the police will not change. Beckman said the university provides support for students if they choose to go through the legal process. “It will continue to be up to the victim to make the decision [to contact police,] unless there is a safety risk,” he said. Wagner student Katie Radin said universities should ensure that students who commit sexual assault are punished properly. “The people who commit these sort of things; these are crimes, they should be expelled from campuses,” Radin said. Beckman said the university’s disciplinary process for all sexual misconduct cases will be handled by Office of Community Standards staff with expertise on sexual assault. The cases are currently handled by individual schools. NYU will continue to evaluate cases on a case-by-case basis. “It is certainly possible that somebody who was found to have committed sexual misconduct could be expelled from the university, but it’s possible that a panel might choose a different punishment,” Beckman said. Racklin said she would prefer if the disciplinary process was overseen by independent parties. “This would help eliminate the potential conflict of interest a representative of the university may have in these cases,” Racklin said.
Community Education and Training
There will be new training programs for various student leaders and professional staff on campus. Bystander intervention training will also increase with the new policies. Additionally, a mandatory online education and prevention program for all students will start in January.
emily bell, nicole brown and casey dalrymple
Staff PhotoS by Daniel Cole
Babeland With three locations in New York and famous customers like Jay-Z and Beyoncé, Babeland is easily one of the city’s most popular sex shops. This friendly boutique boasts modern decor and a welcoming staff — a refreshing alternative to the obscure and cluttered erotica shops one usually finds in downtown Manhattan. Babeland offers paraphernalia of all shapes, sizes and materials, allowing shoppers to find the products that best fit their budgets. For the environmentally conscious customer, the store provides a selection of sustainable, eco-friendly sex toys, like the Solar Bullet Vibrator ($34). While Babeland ensures the quality and safety of each item, perhaps the shop’s most appealing aspect is its focus on sex education. The boutique not only provides an impressive selection of books and DVDs, but also hosts a variety of free sex-ed classes. The shop is also ideal for those looking to keep their sex life private on their bills — transactions at Babeland are encrypted and appear as “TIB” on your bank statement. Lower East Side: 94 Rivington St. SoHo: 43 Mercer St. Brooklyn: 462 Bergen St. babeland.com
The Pleasure Chest The Pleasure Chest made its TV debut when “Sex and the City” character Charlotte went shopping for her first vibrator. Now, while the boutique is a stop on the SATC New York tour, the Pleasure Chest is a go-to destination for locals seeking new ways to express their sexuality. The shop presents a limited but enticing selection of items, including an array of sexual health products to suit indi-
vidual needs. While many sex toys come at a steep price, a helpful staff is available to help you find affordable novelties for any occasion. Some of the Pleasure Chest’s bestsellers include the Magic Wand Original ($55) and the Jimmyjane Afterglow Massage Candle ($29). In addition to providing high-quality products, the famed boutique aims to promote sexual growth in the community by offering free workshops and kinky classes like “BDSM for Beginners.” West Village: 156 Seventh Ave. South Upper East Side: 1150 Second Ave. thepleasurechest.com
SHAG In typical Brooklyn fashion, this Williamsburg boutique more closely resembles an indie art gallery than a sex shop. SHAG functions as a retail store, fine art gallery and event space — aiming to unite sex and art to explore sexual boundaries in a comfortable environment. All the classic tools and toys are available, but a considerable amount of SHAG’s inventory consists of original products made by local artists. These items include one-of-akind pieces of jewelry and erotic art, as well as a selection of edible treats. Among the notable products are the Marquis De Luna Artisanal Truffles — chocolate confections infused with South American Aphrodisiacs ($14 for four pieces). SHAG also hosts a variety of events for sexual education, though most are pricier than those in other boutiques. However, the shop does offer some fun and affordable options, like the “Everything Butt…” workshop coming up on Oct. 16 ($20 per person, $30 per couple). Williamsburg: 108 Roebling St. weloveshag.com
nyunews.com | drugs, sex and mental health | Washington Square news
Guide to Contraceptives
staff
photos
by shawn
paik
Type
effectiveness
how to use
risks
Condom, Male and Female
79-82%
Put on before intercourse.
Allergic reaction to condom materials, irritation
Vaginal Contraceptive Ring, female
91%
Ring is self-inserted and lasts for three weeks. Remove the ring for one week, and insert new one after seven days.
Irritation, discharge, discomfort from the ring
female Oral Contraceptive (“The Pill”)
91%
Take one pill daily.
Nausea, breast tenderness, high blood pressure, headaches
Patch, Female
91%
Apply patch once a week, three weeks out of every month. The patch should be applied to clean, dry skin below the waistline.
Estrogen side effects (nausea, high blood pressure, etc.)
Shot/Injection, Female
94%
One shot is administered by a physician every three months.
Abdominal pain, headaches, possible weight gain
Intrauterine Device (IUD), Female
99%
Device is inserted by a physician and, depending on the type of IUD, can last three to five years.
Irregular bleeding or no periods, pelvic and abdominal pain, ovarian cysts
Emergency Contraceptive (Plan B One-Step, Ella), female
approx. 85%
Take within three to five days after having unprotected sex. Depending on the specific emergency contraceptive purchased.
Nausea, vomiting, abdominal and menstrual pain
source: food and drug administration
Hookup culture needs to grow up
7
National conversations regarding hookup culture on college campuses have been prone to sensationalism. They are embellished with suggestive headlines and improbable details about fleeting liaisons. While research consistently shows that this perception does not match reality, the recurring chastisement of rampant sexuality is misdirected regardless. More telling than the frequency of casual sex among youth is the attitude surrounding it. According to a survey that examined college students’ sentiments, 41 percent “expressed sadness, regret and ambivalence” the morning after a hookup. Furthermore, several studies show that many students would actually prefer to be physical within the context of a romantic relationship than have a meaningless hookup. Given these findings, students’ rationales for choosing empty sex before dating speaks volumes. Both collegiate men and women regularly report that they consider relationships to be a distraction from academics, internships, graduate school and career planning. While they may long for true intimacy, the students craft excuses for their active negation of commitment. With female undergraduates outnumbering male undergraduates, some young men say it is no longer necessary to woo their peers to find sexual partners. Conversely, some young women report that their engagement in hookup culture is founded in desire to avoid romantic attachment and belief that commitment could compromise professional opportunities. Former Harvard student Leah Reis-Dennis, who was interviewed for a March 30, 2011 USA Today article impeccably conveyed this resounding sentiment, saying “Hooking up is kind of an easier way for college students to act on their sexual desire without making a big commitment.” This callous characterization of hookup culture reveals its disingenuous nature. It might be a different situation if these students pursued casual sex after displaying emotional maturity, taking proper precautions and assuming responsibility for any negative consequences. None of these indicators are present in hookup culture. Students instead deliberately avoid romantic relationships because they are terrified of becoming attached to other human beings. Maturity is completely absent from the dynamic. College men and women who have casual sex in this counterproductive fashion shelter themselves from meaningful connections in fear that the relationship could fail, leaving them with an emotional void. Accompanying this attitude is a failure to recognize that vulnerability is inevitable of any significant bond. Relationships regularly fail, but it is a natural part of interpersonal development. This desperate evasion of companionship can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Believing that one can suddenly be prepared for a committed relationship or marriage after solely hooking up throughout college, graduate school and a few years of employment is unrealistic. Hookup culture at best denies students the opportunity for emotional maturation — at worst, it irrevocably hinders one’s ability to form substantive connections. Christina Coleburn
Washington Square news | drugs, sex and mental health | nyunews.com
mental health
8
Common causes of anxiety, tips on
Approximately 40 million Americans experience anxious feelings, many of whom include college students. In such a fast-paced environment it is unsurprising that students often feel overwhelmed. Here are some common anxiety triggers, as well as methods to help address these problems.
pletely, increases in stress — caused by anything from homework to your personal life — can cause you to experience anxiety, restlessness or even panic attacks. Try to make time for you. Set aside an hour a day to relax and breathe, which will help put external stressors in perspective.
Stress
Sleep deprivation can do a lot of damage to your body, and can even
Though impossible to avoid com-
Sleep
trigger anxiety. To avoid putting your body on edge, try to stick to a regular sleep schedule, shooting for seven to eight hours a night.
Caffeine
Your daily espresso craving may be causing more than just a buzz. Ingesting caffeine, which increases your heart rate in order to give you that boost of energy, can also be an anxiety trigger. Cut back your
guide to common mental health conditions Eating Disorders
what are some identifying signs?
Anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorders vary in symptoms — restrictive eating; binge eating; self-induced vomiting; abuse of laxatives; weight loss or weight gain; excessive exercise; spending most of the day thinking about food, weight and shape; guilt about eating; not experiencing normal hunger or fullness; avoiding eating situations with other people; and bloodshot eyes or swollen cheeks from purging. The spectrum of eating disorders affects all genders, and there are long-lasting physical and psychological consequences for everyone suffering from one.
what are the usual treatments?
An assessment of medical and psychological status is usually done first, then either an inpatient unit, an intensive outpatient program or weekly outpatient therapy is conducted. Help from a nutritionist and a psychiatrist are sometimes involved. Medication depends on the individual.
what should be done if you notice these signs in a friend?
Sound supportive without sounding accusatory. “Use ‘I’ phrases, [such as] ‘I’m concerned about you,’ or ‘I wonder if I can help you in anyway,’ or ‘I feel like eating may be something that’s hard for you,’ or ‘I worry about you spending so much time at the gym.’ Rather than, ‘you’re spending too much time at the gym,’ ‘you’re doing this,’ ‘you’re doing that.’” — Dr. Diane Klein
what can lead to a recurrence of the condition?
Stress, a new environment where things may be out of one’s control or seasonal depression. During winter one may feel down and during summer one may feel body pressure.
depression
what are some identifying signs?
Weight gain, weight loss, oversleeping, not sleeping enough, loss of interest, inability to concentrate, consistently discouraged mood lasting more than two weeks, eating too much, not eating, agitation, low self-esteem and suicidal thoughts.
what are the usual treatments?
Antidepressants, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, group therapy, mindfulness-based treatments and many other forms of talk therapy.
what should be done if you notice these signs in a friend?
“People [with depression] are typically treatment-seeking, more so than [those with] drug abuse. Approach them out of care, out of worry. Express concern without judgment.” – Dr. Michael Walton
what can lead to a recurrence of the condition?
Although depression is not necessarily linked to anything, it can be triggered by a memory or setback, heavy stress or seasonal depression with lack of light.
anxiety
what are some identifying signs?
Feeling nervous, being restless, sweating, worrying excessively, constantly projecting negative outcomes, discounting success, shaking and physical upsets such as an upset stomach, headache and insomnia. Stress is often prevalent during exams or tests, but when it starts to affect a person’s performance and ability to drop their worries or rationalize, one should seek help.
what are the usual treatments?
Counseling, antidepressants to regulate serotonin levels, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, group therapy, mindfulness-based treatments and many other forms of talk therapy and skills building. “First, these people must very carefully reduce alcohol and drug use which can inflame [anxiety]. It’s hard to treat the problem when a person is using.”– Dr. Michael Walton
what should be done if you notice these signs in a friend?
Take their concerns seriously. Reach out with support, give your direct observations, listen openly without judgment and patiently remind your friend that you are willing to assist them when they are ready to talk or get help.
what can lead to a recurrence of the condition?
It peaks around times of stress — keep a regular schedule, do not cut out sleep and make sure to exercise. COURTESY OF charles marmar, m.d.; rebecca whiting, lcsw; luis ramirez, lcsw; anne mceneaney, ph.d.; diane klein, m.d.; michael walton, m.d.
nyunews.com | drugs, sex and mental health | Washington Square news
how to alleviate them
daily coffee intake and instead stay hydrated with water.
Medication
Certain prescription meds, such as drugs for asthma, attention deficit disorder and oral contraceptives, have the possible side effect of increased anxiety. If you are taking any form of medication, consult your physician to see if the type of drug can be altered to decrease these symptoms.
Genetics
Sometimes anxiety is part of your genetic makeup — your DNA may make you susceptible to feelings of anxiety. If you have a family member with anxiety and experience feelings of anxiety yourself, a variety of options are available, from therapy to getting a prescription medicine. For more information on anxiety, visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America’s website at adaa.org. dana reszutek
University suicide response examined through the years When walking into the atrium of Bobst Library, the history of NYU’s struggle with student deaths is inescapable. The golden, cage-like panels that cover the interior of the 12-story building were installed in 2012 to prevent students from jumping from the upper floors. Seven students died during the 200304 school year, leaving the university and student body stunned. As recently as August of this year, NYU student deaths have continued to make headlines, earning the university a reputation of being a suicide school. With each death, administrators and university officials are left to decide how to address the NYU community. Depending on the circumstances of a death, students will receive a universitywide email regarding the tragedy and reminding them of available counseling services. NYU spokesman John Beckman said the university does not have definitive policies regarding communications. “We do not have one set practice that is repeated in every instance; while student deaths share a common aspect of tragedy and sorrow, the specifics and circumstances vary widely, and so we make the decisions carefully and on a case-by-case basis,” Beckman said. “We do not believe there is a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach that would be successful.” While a universitywide email might not always be sent out, NYU will still notify professors, classmates and others who could be potentially impacted by the student’s death. Beckman added that the university is primarily concerned with the safety of the entire NYU community. The Werther effect, commonly referred to as the contagion effect, suggests that when suicides are given a lot of attention, those with suicidal thoughts are more likely to act on their impulses. For this reason, the university does not allow campus memorials in cases of suicides and attempts to limit university communication. Victor Schwartz, School of Medicine faculty member and former medical director of the NYU student mental health service, said while it is important to not draw a lot of attention to student deaths, it is still im-
portant to keep the needs of friends and family in mind. “I think the challenge is to be able to acknowledge that there is a loss, that there are friends and family that are in pain, while at the same time not overdramatizing or making this death seem appealing,” Schwartz said. School of Medicine professor Claude M. Chemtob said he disagrees with the idea of withholding information about suicides. There must be an open discussion about mental health, he explained. “You have to rally people to recognize we are a community, by informing them of the risks and the issues, and increasing the sense that we’re all responsible for one another,” Chemtob said. Chemtob added that, although suicide rarely happens, it intensely impacts communities. He said he believes the key to suicide prevention is creating a resilient community that provides support and is also educated on the characteristics of suicidal behavior. “We must create a culture for students around mutual taking care of each other,” Chemtob said. “On the other hand you have to actually teach them skills to recognize when they have to reach out to the student, or to adults who can help.” The need for community is echoed by members of the student body. Steinhardt sophomore Taylor Gese said while living in New York provides unparalleled experiences, the sense of isolation can be hard to escape. “Living in Greenwich Village at 18 is an experience you’d be crazy to pass up,” Gese said. “That being said, New York is so lonely for some reason I’ve never been able to pinpoint.” Tisch junior Aylah Donayre shares the sentiment that going to NYU can be a lonely experience, but she highlighted the support system the university can provide to students in times of need. “If you’re interested in finding that community within NYU, all you have to do is be proactive about looking for it,” Donayre said. “The city is somewhere that I thrive, but I know if it ever became too overwhelming all I would have to do is ask for help.” Valentina Duque Bojanini
9
Take a break at local destressing spots
The hustle and bustle of New York City, especially when combined with the pressure of college, can easily be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are many places to take a breather away from the crowds and cabs. emily bell
The High line
The converted railroad track of the High Line is a great spot to catch a view of the city, surround oneself with urban landscaping and find a bench to sit on and think. Check out the new section that just opened, but make sure to avoid it on weekends when it gets most crowded.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the perks of the Met having a suggested price is an affordable place to instantly be immersed in beauty and stillness. Head to the back rooms of the Met, especially on weekday afternoons, for an unexpected place to get away for a bit.
Caffe Dante
Close to NYU but not as close or as crowded as Caffe Reggio, Caffe Dante is the perfect place to get some leisure reading done. Laptops are not allowed, so ditch the obligations of email and disconnect while enjoying a great cappuccino.
Waverly Diner
While the food is slightly overpriced, the friendliness of the waitstaff and the comfort of the food make this diner an ideal setting to feel at home in the big city. It is usually fairly empty, and people-watching in the booths while eating a grilled cheese is about as relaxing as it gets.
The Strand Underground
The Strand can become pretty zoo-like, but head to the cool lower level to experience a reprieve from Bobst Library while enjoying the smell of old books. Explore each tiny corner and slowly slip away from the craziness of Broadway.
Grand Army Plaza (Manhattan)
For a park where you will not run into anyone from NYU, sit in front of The Plaza Hotel at Grand Army Plaza. At the bottom of Central Park, it feels like oldworld New York and will help remind you of the reason you came to the city. Photos by Calvin Falk
10
Washington Square news | drugs, sex and mental health | nyunews.com
Mental illness stigmatization hurts students The prevalence of mental health problems on American college campuses is alarming. In a national survey conducted by the American College Health Association, 40 percent of male students and 50 percent of female students reported “feeling so depressed that they had difficulty functioning one or more times during the last school year.” College students face a myriad of stressors. We must achieve the perfect balance of dedication to classes, extracurriculars, jobs, internships and friends. We worry about student loans. We worry about careers and post-graduate life. Given the weight of the college experience and the tremendous pressure to not flounder in it, it is not difficult to understand why so many students suffer psychologically. Eradicating this issue will not be an easy feat, but it must begin
with a conversation on society’s destructive cultural attitudes toward mental health. Negative societal perceptions of mental illness are deeply rooted in history. During the Middle Ages, mental illness was associated with witchcraft. It was believed that mentally ill individuals were influenced by the devil, and they were punished rather than treated. While cultural attitudes have thankfully evolved, progress still must be made. Modern society makes a clear distinction between physical and mental illness. Physical conditions are less likely to carry social stigma and thus conversations about treatment and recovery occur more publicly. Mental illness is usually not met with these same affirmations of legitimacy. Government policies reflect this view. During financial crises, mental health care budgets
are typically among the first services to be cut. Medicare, which provides unlimited coverage for inpatient treatment at a general hospital, only covers inpatient care at a psychiatric hospital for up to 190 days. Mental illness is regularly coupled with shame. Speaking openly about depression or anxiety is considered relatively taboo, and this dangerous stigma can discourage people from seeking help. At NYU, students in need of mental health services have several options. Our Student Health Center offers a 24-hour Wellness Exchange hotline, counseling, psychiatric medication services and informative workshops. Despite the availability of these resources, many students may not feel prepared to disclose their personal condition and seek help. A 2012 National Alliance on
Mental Illness survey revealed that fear of stigmatization is one of the top reasons students choose not to disclose mental health issues. There are more students quietly suffering instead of utilizing the services available to them. Raising mental health awareness should be a priority on college campuses. Minimizing the importance of the problem does not help anyone. NYU requires all freshmen to go through an online alcohol education program — creating a similar program for mental health education could foster a greater understanding of these illnesses. We must use education to combat the stigma around mental health, especially on college campuses. Only then will we begin to reach the many students who suffer silently.
Zahra Haque
voices on health and safety Zoe Ragouzeos Director of Counseling and Wellness “As opposed to a hospital whose primary reason for existing is to provide health care, the student health center exists within an academic setting to allow you to progress academically by providing you good health, or providing you with services so that you can be healthy.” “If you are talking about things that we think are immediate risks, then we’ll bring you in that same day. If there are issues that we think you can wait a few days, then you wait a few days for an appointment, and that’s just so we can get the most high risk people in the door first and then of course we would get everybody in as soon as we could.” “The [wellness] hotline had 3,400 calls in its first year and it had 17,000 calls in 2013-2014.”
Elise Traywick Communications Director of Students for Sensible Drug Policy
“Due to the Good Samaritan Policy, if a person calls for help for himself or others, he/she cannot be punished for being in the situation or for any substances he/she may have taken. While waiting, make sure to lie down, drink water and have someone there with you to calm you down or give assistance as necessary.”
Meghan Racklin President of NYU Feminist Society “Bystander intervention programs have been shown to be effective at reducing sexual assault. They are most effective if participants are actively engaged in skills-building, which reinforces my belief that in-person trainings and education programs are necessary.”
student resources NYU Student Health Center 212.443.1000 nyu.edu/life/safety-health-wellness/student-health-center.html Services Health Promotion: 212.443.1234 HIV Testing and Counseling: 212.443.1122 Men’s Health: 212.443.1122 Mental Health: 212.998.4780 Women’s Health: 212.443.1166 Polytechnic School of Engineering Counseling Services: 718.260.3456 NYU Wellness Exchange 212.443.9999 nyu.edu/999 NYU Public Safety 212.998.2222 nyu.edu/public.safety Anxiety and Depression Association of America 240.485.1001 adaa.org Lifenet 800.543.3638 nyc.gov/html/doh/html/mental/lifenet.shtml National Alliance on Mental Illness 800.950.6264 nami.org National Eating Disorders Association 800.931.2237 nationaleatingdisorders.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800.273.8255 suicidepreventionlifeline.org Planned Parenthood of New York City 212.274.7200 plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-new-york-city Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network 800.656.4673 (National Sexual Assault Hotline) rainn.org S.A.F.E. Alternatives 800.366.8288 selfinjury.com Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 800.662.4357 samhsa.gov
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nyunews.com | drugs, sex and mental health | Washington Square news
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