Over its 125-year history, Delta Sigma Phi has evolved significantly, adapting to cultural and societal shifts. While some of the issues faced by college students today are similar to those faced by the Fraternity’s founders, new complexities arise with each generation and we learn more about recurring problems faced by college-aged men. One of the most notable current challenges our members face and address is related to mental health. Recent research has shown that:

• Of respondents who dropped out of college, 64% attributed mental health issues as the primary reason.

• In 2021, men died by suicide at a rate of 3.9 times that of women

Compounding on these realities related to mental health, men are experiencing an epidemic of loneliness, with 15% of men saying they have no close friends (up from 3% of men in 1990). In 2019, 39% of men ages 25-54 were “unpartnered,” compared to 29% in 1990. At Delta Sigma Phi, we recognize the important role that families play in supporting their collegiate loved ones, and we want to assure you that their health, safety, and personal growth are at the heart of our mission.

Courage and Culture

One approach to addressing these topics for our members is Delta Sigma Phi’s Courage & Culture educational programs, through which we equip members with the knowledge and skills to navigate challenges they may encounter during their college years. These workshops address critical topics such as mental health, belonging, substance use, hazing prevention, and bystander intervention—empowering our members to make informed, responsible decisions. Whether it’s learning how to foster a stronger sense of brotherhood, understanding the impact of alcohol and drug use, or even receiving training on opioid overdose prevention or healthy relationships, our goal is to prepare Delta Sig men to look out for themselves and their peers. Over the past two years, Delta Sigma Phi staff and volunteers have educated almost 2,500 members, and we are in the creation phase for additional programs related to mental health and sexual assault prevention. By fostering open dialogue and practical skill-building, we help ensure that each member can thrive in a safe, supportive environment—something we know is just as important to you as it is to us.

Mental Health Platform

Delta Sigma Phi has recently partnered with RULA, a virtual platform whose mission is to break down barriers for individuals seeking mental health support. Each year, more than 65 million Americans seek help for a mental health condition, but due to a broken and frustrating system, two-thirds of those individuals give up before ever getting the help they need. Our team at Delta Sigma Phi hears about the mental health challenges our members face on a regular basis, and the Fraternity has identified mental health support as a priority to address. This partnership with RULA is just one part of our multi-pronged approach to providing resources, support, and education to your loved one about this critical topic. Additionally, the team members in our Health & Safety department are talking one-on-one with members this semester to gather feedback about what additional mental health support the Fraternity can provide our members.

Leadership Coaching

In addition to these educational initiatives, our team provides individualized coaching and support for various chapter officers including sergeants-at-arms, new member educators, social chairmen, risk management chairs, standards board members, and other members and officers interested in or focused on health and safety topics and initiatives. This coaching consists of both position-specific training and transferrable skills that members can utilize in their careers and life beyond the Fraternity.

We are honored to have a part in your loved one’s development through their membership in Delta Sigma Phi. By partnering with you to prioritize these critical health and safety initiatives, we believe we can make a positive impact for our members and the lives of those around them. Consider reviewing the Fraternal Health & Safety Initiative’s guide for parents and caregivers, which provides a variety of resources to support you in engaging in conversations with your loved one about these and other topics.

Please reach out to Delta Sigma Phi staff if you have any questions or concerns.

References

• NAMI Survey: Report on Collegiate Mental Health

• SCAL Survey: American Men Suffer a Friendship Recession

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention