I am writing to express my heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Anthony Brucato, the Boston University sophomore who took his life this Jan. 6. As a suicide prevention activist — and someone who has long suffered from depression myself — I was shocked to tears by the discovery that one of my peers had succumbed to this devastating problem. Although I did not know Anthony, I would like you to know I share in your shock, grief and sadness.

While I may have been able to understand Anthony’s sorrow, I can only imagine the level of sorrow his close acquaintances have experienced in light of this tragedy. Still, I would like to offer any help that my group and I can provide. Fearless invites all those affected to attend its weekly meetings Thursdays at 9 p.m. in CAS 222, where they can feel free to express their grief and receive support from peers (many of whom have faced similar circumstances). Also, you should be aware that a variety of resources are available for your healing: the BU Counseling Center (353-3540), the Danielsen Institute (353-3047), the BU Mental Health Clinic (353-3569), and various other Boston area centers, which you can attain by contacting me ([email protected]). I sincerely hope that some of this information may aid in your coping process.

In wake of this tragedy, I can only reiterate Fearless’ passionate commitment to campus suicide prevention. Anthony did not suffer alone; suicide remains the second-leading cause of death among college students and results in an average of 1,000 deaths per day. While many suicides cannot be “prevented,” counseling and intervention tactics can often rescue a despairer from that devastating “final solution.” However, friends and family should never blame themselves for a person’s suicide. On Feb. 12, Fearless will sponsor a Suicide Prevention Training Workshop for all those looking to help a friend in need. In this endeavor, we will be aided by professionals from The Samaritans, a worldwide suicide prevention hotline and also an excellent resource in times of crisis (274-0220).

Again, I can only repeat my sincere and earnest sympathy for Anthony’s friends and family. I wish there was more I could do. Please, feel free to contact Fearless if we can help in any way.