You matter.
Everyone should know it. Not just today, but every day, and especially on the days it is hard to believe.
Why we are here
Nobody should carry it alone.
Founded in Okemos, Michigan, in 2018, #SockOutSuicide began as an act of remembrance after the suicide loss of a community member. Inspired by their love for bright, colorful socks, the movement turns heartbreak into hope.
It raises awareness for suicide prevention and promotes open conversations about mental health. What once felt risky, especially in schools, now sparks honest conversations and helps break the stigma around mental health.
A difficult conversation has grown into a movement. Each year, more people put on their boldest, brightest socks to start conversations, build connection, and show that together we can make a difference.
You do not need to be an expert to make a difference. You only need to care enough to show up.
Three ways to show someone they matter
Notice
Learn to recognize when someone around you may need support, and trust your instinct when something feels off.
Reach out
A simple check-in can open the door. Ask how someone is really doing, and then listen.
Stay connected
Community is how we avoid carrying things alone. Keep showing up, on campus and beyond.
Take the Pledge
By participating in #SockOutSuicide, I pledge to:
Seek help or call 988 if I am having suicidal thoughts.
Encourage others to seek help from a professional if they are struggling.
Call 988 or 911 if I think someone is in danger of suicide.
Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Trusted mental-health and crisis-support resources exist to listen, support, and guide you — any time of day or night.
If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) at any time.
If you are in an active emergency, please call 911.
🔗 Resource links coming soon.
Connect with our student organizations
#SockOutSuicide is active on campuses across the United States. Find your school’s chapter, follow along on Instagram, and join the group chat to get involved.
Follow the main account on Instagram: @sockoutsuicide
Michigan State University
Follow us on Instagram: @sockoutsuicide.msu
Reach out to gasserdy@msu.edu
🔗 GroupMe link coming soon
University of Michigan
Follow us on Instagram: coming soon!
Reach out to valelm@umich.edu
🔗 GroupMe link coming soon
Vermont University
Follow us on Instagram: @sockoutsuicide.uvm
Reach out to fcrandel@uvm.edu
🔗 GroupMe link coming soon
Does your university not have a student organization and you want to get involved? Reach out to gasserdy@msu.edu
Our Partners
We are grateful for the businesses and groups supporting #SockOutSuicide.
You matter. Please pass it on.
Tell a friend, a classmate, a neighbor. Join the conversation with #SockOutSuicide and help make sure everyone knows they are not alone.
Wear your socks and start conversations!
Ready to get involved or have questions about #SockOutSuicide? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out directly at gasserdy@msu.edu and let’s start a conversation.
