Editor,
The proposal by Carol Wagner-Adams and Counseling & Therapy Services at UNM to withdraw those students with extreme suicidal or homicidal tendencies is an irresponsible and negligent attempt to alleviate a complex and sensitive issue.
The proposal will ultimately curb those who need counseling from obtaining help. The forced withdrawal by the University of a student suffering from mental illness or depression would cause more stress and pain to the individual, and may push the individual even closer to suicide.
Rather than withdraw students from the University, perhaps the University should focus on better prevention and counseling programs. The last thing a depressed and suicidal person needs is to be pushed further into self-doubt and isolation.
The University should be committed to help those in need of counseling services instead of punishing those who bring their darkest fears and concerns into the light.
Rather than push those troubled individuals away, counselors should embrace the situation as an opportunity to help a person deal with problems and maybe even save a life.
Jennifer Shevokas
UNM student
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