Fighting the Good Fight!
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Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with the brothers of Sigma Nu at Auburn University about a topic that continues to impact far too many young men and women, mental health and suicide prevention.
It was an honest, important conversation. And one that needs to happen more often.
I have been part of the Speaker Series for Fight Against Suicide thanks to Director and Founder, David Edmiston, Cooper Heath (Founder) and their incredible team at Auburn University, Riley Spitzer, Ben Marks, Rogan Thompson, John Reid Carlon, Olivia Rome, Cele Camp Noah Bennet, Manning Smith, Lily Lawton, AC Foster, Holland Hill and Ellie Spitzer.
https://www.thefightagainstsuicide.com/
Why Fraternities Matter in This Fight
One of the most powerful takeaways from my time with Sigma Nu is this: brotherhood can save lives.
Fraternities and Sororities are uniquely positioned to make a difference. The bonds formed within these organizations create an environment where warning signs can be noticed, conversations can happen, and support can be offered.
At Auburn, there is a growing effort to make mental health part of everyday conversation. Programs like QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) are teaching students how to recognize warning signs and take action when someone is in crisis.
But beyond programs and training, the most important shift is cultural:
It’s okay to talk
It’s okay to not be okay
And it’s more than okay to ask for help
Too often, young men and women feel pressure to appear strong, to push through, or to stay silent. That silence is where the danger lives.
The Fight Against Suicide Leadership asks that “Coach Lou” come in to speak since my family and I have direct experience with Mental Health and Suicide having lost our son and Caitlin’s brother Gordon J. Corsetti. My talk centers around how to talk with each other and lifting the stigma of mental health. We run through some exercises that Gordon taught me and I try to be joyous telling some funny and engaging stories about my son and how we can all encourage each other to seek help or just put your arm around someone in a time of need.
I also had the pleasure of seeing some of my ex-players who attend Auburn University, Carter, Louden, Robert, and Noah. Seeing these guys always makes me smile.
What stood out most during my visit wasn’t just the seriousness of the topic, it was the willingness of these young men and women to engage, to listen, and to care.
That gives me hope.
Because the fight against suicide isn’t won in large moments, it’s won in everyday conversations, in small acts of courage, and in choosing to show up for one another.
If we can continue to normalize these discussions and equip young people with the tools to act, we can save lives.
And that’s what this mission is all about.
“Take Care of Your Crew”
Please consider donating to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation to help us keep Gordon’s legacy alive.
Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for help. In an emergency, please call 911.
If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264).
For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).
