The University of Detroit Mercy will host “A Discussion on Universal Suicide Screening in Medical Settings” on April 9, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the University’s ballroom. This event aims to address suicide prevention in healthcare environments, bringing awareness to a growing concern among medical professionals and students entering the field.
Andrea Kwasky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and suicide prevention educator, helped bring the event to campus. With 25 years of nursing experience, she has dedicated much of her career to working with young people in the mental health field.
“This agency, SiNS Healthcare, obtained a grant to fund suicide prevention meetings and approached us to collaborate,” Kwasky said. “Given the number of students and faculty going into healthcare, it was a great opportunity to partner with them.”
The discussion is especially relevant as suicide rates among healthcare professionals have risen, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Nurses have a higher suicide rate than the general population,” Kwasky noted. “If we want to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, we need to talk about it openly.”
Universal suicide screening is a key focus of the event. The goal is to encourage screening in all medical settings, not just psychiatric ones.
“We want dentists, eye doctors, nurses—anyone in a medical setting—to feel comfortable asking about mental health,” Kwasky explained. “Early intervention can save lives.”
For college students, the conversation is equally important. Many face stress, anxiety and depression, making mental health resources critical. Kwasky emphasized that the university provides free personal counseling through the Wellness Center, along with suicide prevention training for faculty, staff and campus security.
Beyond this event, the University continues to prioritize mental health awareness. Regular training sessions, student-led initiatives and events like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk provide ongoing support and education.
“With over 90 attendees already registered, we hope this panel will inspire action,” Kwasky said. “If even one life is saved because someone decides to check in on a friend or colleague, this event will have made a difference.”
The discussion is open to all students, faculty and community members. Attendees can expect a complimentary breakfast, networking opportunities and an engaging panel discussion.
For more information or to register, students can visit the university’s Campus Connection website.
