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University of Utah sends out mental health resources after two students die

One student died Friday evening after falling off an electric scooter, the U. said in a statement.

(Francisco Kjolseth | The Salt Lake Tribune) The University of Utah campus on Wednesday, March 11, 2020.

(Francisco Kjolseth | The Salt Lake Tribune) The University of Utah campus on Wednesday, March 11, 2020.

Two University of Utah students died within the first week of classes under separate, “tragic” circumstances, the school said in a message Monday afternoon.

The information came with an urge for anyone in need to seek help.

“We encourage all members of our campus community to prioritize the safety and well-being of themselves and others,” the school said in a campuswide email alert. “… Support is here whenever you need it — today, later this week, or down the road.”

One student died Friday evening after falling off an electric scooter, the U. said in a statement. According to the school’s daily police log, the accident occurred by the HPER North fitness building on upper campus.

The school said the student was a first-year from California; officials declined to provide the student’s gender, citing the family’s request for privacy.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family, friends, classmates and all those affected by this loss,” the U. said.

A second student died by suicide Sunday afternoon in an off-campus apartment, a Salt Lake City police spokesperson confirmed.

The school and police recommend calling 911, or seeking help at the nearest emergency room if there is a life at risk.

Resources specifically for students include:

• The University Counseling Center, which offers support Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Students can call 801-581-6826 or visit in person at room 426 in the Student Services Building.

• Mantra Health ConnectNow, which is contracted with the U., provides access to “a mental health professional for immediate support and problem solving to students.” Students can video or text chat with a professional from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. or call any time at 888-319-5111. No appointment is needed. Students can also access services on Mantra Health’s website or phone app.

• The on-campus Mental Health First Responders Program also offers crisis support every day from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. for students who live on campus. The no-cost service is available by calling 385-321-5356. The responders also are able to respond in person to any campus housing facility.

• The Wellness Hub in room 350 of the Student Services Building can also point students to additional available services, including mental and medical care, basic needs assistance (such as food or housing), victim-survivor advocacy and disability services. It is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“There is no single right way to seek support,” the U. said in its statement. “You do not need to decide whether what you are experiencing is ‘serious enough’ before reaching out.”

Anyone can seek help through these resources:

• The SafeUT app and tip line that is available 24/7. Individuals can also call 801-587-3000 to connect with support staff.

• Utah’s Warm Line, which offers immediate connection, is staffed from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. The number is 833-SPEAKUT (toll free) or 801-587-1055 (local).

• The nationwide Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by texting or calling 988.

• The Huntsman Mental Health Institute offers walk-in crisis care 24/7 for adults age18 and older. There are two locations, one on campus at 501 Chipeta Way in Research Park and one in South Salt Lake at 955 W. 3300 South. No appointment is needed.

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