University of North Carolina cancels classes over two alleged suicides

By Ben Kesslen -

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill suspended classes Tuesday and gave its students a "mental wellness day" as campus authorities investigate two possible suicides over the weekend.

The decision was made after

, according to the campus police crime records reviewed. by WRAL, an affiliate of NBC News in the city of Raleigh.

"We are in the midst of a mental health crisis, both on our campus and across the country

, and we are aware that college-age students have a higher risk of suicide," he wrote in a letter to the student body on Sunday. Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz.

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The school encouraged students to take advantage of Tuesday to communicate with each other and rest.

The university also said it is organizing a "special support network" to help them connect with available services this week and process what happened.

It is common to see students crying on campus, in libraries, on the way to class, in the dining room "

senior

Guskiewicz's letter, sent on World Mental Health Day, announced the launch of "Heels Care Network, a campus-wide campaign to promote and support mental health."

Clare Landis, who works for Peer2Peer, a student-run mental health group, said

"We almost have a second pandemic on our hands with mental health and suicide,

" Landis told WRAL.

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The student newspaper, The Daily Tar Heel, reported Sunday that they will be working "reduced hours ... to allow our staff time to rest and prioritize their mental health."

Senior Savannah Shoemake described

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"It's common to see students crying on campus, in libraries, on the way to class, in the lunchroom

," Shoemake, 21, said in a message.

"There is a marked sensation of pain at this moment (...) it is evident that most of my colleagues are struggling," he said.

Some university students believe that the institution is not doing enough.

Several students study at the Wilson Library at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, September 20, 2018.JONATHAN DRAKE / REUTERS

"Our hearts are broken," said Kendra Randle, a junior, who believes the university took too long to respond to the deaths.

"Tuesday is College Day, so several classes have already been canceled," said Randle, 20.

“They chose the easiest solution.

What message are they sending to students by refusing to cancel classes on Monday? ”He asked.

"After spending time in mourning,

" he added.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Line at 800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741741 to reach a trained counselor through the Crisis Text Line .

You can also visit