Suicide Prevention Signs Go Up On Top Levels of UNT Parking Garage

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DENTON (CBS11)  - The University of North Texas is hoping a new approach to reaching students considering suicide will catch their attention at just the right time.

UNT posted ten suicide crisis hotline signs on the top two level of the Highland Street parking garage.

Students said they know some of their classmates have contemplated jumping from the garage.

"There may have been times when people have come up here in distress," said UNT spokesperson Margarita Venegas. "So we just want to proactively let them know before they consider anything rash that we are here to help and there are ways to get help."

When English professor, Deborah Armintor, learned about the signs she reflected back on her uncle.

He had committed suicide by jumping off a bridge in Pittsburgh.

"I wish there would have been a sign there," Armintor said. "I don't know if it would have stopped him, but it would have felt really good if there was a sign."

Armintor said she thinks it's a great idea to have the signs there on the top floors of the garage.

Along with a number for a 24/7/365 suicide prevention center. There's also a number for the Trevor Project for LGBTQ students.

Last year the University's CARE team helped 162 students.

MHMR Hotline: 1-800-762-0157

TTY: 1-800-269-6233

Trevor Project Hotline for LGBTQ: 1-866-488-7386

UNT says help is available 24 hours a day.

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