One of my favorite things about being a freshman at Marist College is learning about all of the different traditions that are celebrated by students here. One day in particular that really stands out to me is P.S I Love You Day. When I discovered that this incredible event was developed by one of our very own students, my feeling that I had made the right choice coming here was only strengthened.
P.S I Love You Day was founded by sophomore Brooke DiPalma and is held every second Friday in February. It was inspired by someone who she, like many daughters, looks up to: her father. In 2010, Brooke’s father committed suicide after she had left for school, leaving her with three final words that would remain in her heart forever: “I love you.” Losing a loved one this way, or in any way, has a severe effect. Depression is such an ugly thing. It completely drains you of any energy left in your body, makes getting out of bed the hardest part of the day, strips smiles of happiness and completely takes over your life, whether you want it to or not. According to recent surveys, one of every three college students in the U.S., has sought counseling due to mental illness. One in three students adds up to so many individuals fighting this battle, and this statistic only accounts for people who went for help. Beyond this number are thousands of students who will not get help for this internal demon. Sometimes it is as if mental illness is becoming normalized and common. It’s not.
Brooke’s loss took had a very big impact on her life, but she used her feelings to do things that impact the lives of others such as creating P.S I Love You Day. This year on February 12, everyone at Marist wore purple to represent the significance of the day. I walked around the student center and found posters of motivational quotes and facts about depression on college campuses. In another location, clubs and organizations were taking photos together, and celebrating the power of kindness. Some posters displayed saying such as, “You’re worth it” and “It gets better.” These little reminders throughout the day really raised awareness of the cause.
Honestly, that whole day, I felt nothing but positive energy on campus. Call me a hippie, but it was just a feeling that couldn’t be explained. People were smiling at each other, reminding each other of their value and being kind. In the midst of a chaotic college lifestyle, it’s easy to push others away or forget that everyone is going through something and we should be there for them. This day served as a reminder of how we should be treating one another and ourselves. Depression is a very real thing, especially for many college students. If you ever feel like you need help, or just someone to talk to, reach out. There will always be somebody there for you, even if you don’t think so. If you know someone who is fighting this battle, be there for them. It can be a very scary thing going through this and knowing that someone is there with unconditional love can be a comforting thing.
Remember that you are important, you matter, and you are loved.
If you or someone you know needs help with depression or thoughts of suicide, please contact Marist counseling services at (845) 575-3314 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.
Photographs courtesy of Brooke DiPalma