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New Student Group Raising Awareness About Depression, Suicide

More than 20 million in the U.S. suffer from depression; almost everyone has to deal with suicide, depression, addiction, or self-injury at some point in their lives. This is the most common illness
in the world today.
To Write Love On Her Arms is a non-profit organization that hopes to help those affected, and also encourage open communication
between members and non-members about traditionally taboo topics.
“First and foremost we want to create a community where students
feel free to talk about these tough topics,” said To Write Love On Her Arms Bradley Chapter president, Ashley Kowalczyk. “We would also like to increase awareness
across campus and end the silence. Finally, we want to encourage
and help people seek professional
help, and that it is even available on campus.”
Jessica Dobson and Kowalczyk started the club, and the two had not known each other before they attended the To Write Love On Her Arms conference. With similar goals, the pair helped the Bradley Chapter take off.
“To Write Love On Her Arms is an organization needed on Bradley’s campus,” said sophomore
marketing major Melissa Mitchell. “Many people feel that they are the only one going through hard times but there are others on campus that feel the same way too. To Write Love On Her Arms is a place where everyone
can feel welcome and where these students can find support.”
The mission statement for To Write Love On Her Arms states it is “a non-profit movement dedicated
to presenting hope and finding
help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide.
“The organization exists to encourage, inform, inspire and also to invest directly into treatment
and recovery,” according to its website.
Sophomore electronic media major Sara Olson said this group is relatable to everyone.
“Being part of the organization makes me feel like there is hope in myself and in others,” she said.
Meetings take place at 8 p.m. on Thursdays. Those interested can join the Facebook group for updates and more information.
There are several events planned for this year, with more to come once the chapter is more established on campus.
The Bradley chapter of To Write Love On Her Arms is working
with ACBU to bring in Jamie Tworkowski, the founder of To Write Love On Her Arms, to Bradley.
“To Write Love on Her Arms is an amazing organization,” said sophomore history secondary education
major Lauren Cassidy. “It is promoting love, what could possibly
be wrong with that? It is an organization that belongs on every single college campus.”
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