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HSC Statement on the Untimely Deaths of Indian-American College Students

Hindu Students Council is alarmed at the untimely string of Indian-American student deaths across college campuses.

We urge the community to advocate loudly for justice for these families, as well as listen to their loved ones and friends who may be going through hard times. The community has expressed concern that these cases are not given the time and resources they deserve. Given the pattern of deaths, we request that law enforcement take the community’s fears and concerns seriously and provide a sense of closure for grieving families.

The causes of death unfortunately include overdose and suicide, speaking to a larger problem of substance abuse and mental health stigma from which a lot of students suffer. Please be unconditionally supportive towards your friends, loved ones, and children, who might be struggling with their mental health or additional, because the consequences are irreversible. If you or a loved one is suffering, help is always available.

Resources include:

National helplines:
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
https://988lifeline.org/

List of providers for the community:

https://mannmukti.org/providers-database/

The Mahamrutyunjaya mantra, which praises Shiva, can help devotees cope with death and wish peace upon the departed atmas.

Aum Tryambakam yajaamahe, sugandhim pushtivardhanam |

Urvaarukamiva bandhanaan-mrityormuksheeya maamritaat ||

“We worship the one with three eyes, fragrant with ashes, and blesses all. Just like a fruit naturally and seamlessly falls off its tree, may we be liberated from death.”