Xavier men’s soccer players sported a new patch reading “1N5” on their jerseys during a game on Tuesday night, marking the beginning of a partnership aimed at raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. This initiative is part of the university's broader commitment to integrate mental health advocacy throughout its athletic programs.
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The patch represents 1N5, a Cincinnati nonprofit organization focused on suicide prevention. This partnership kicked off during the “X Out Stigma” game held in recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
For Nancy Eigel-Miller, the founder of 1N5, this collaboration is particularly meaningful. She lost her husband, Jim, who previously worked at Xavier, to suicide in 2008. “It came as a total shock to us. He was loud and goofy, and everybody loved him,” Eigel-Miller explained. After realizing the gaps in her understanding of mental health, she established 1N5 in 2010.
Today, 1N5 works to foster discussions about mental health in schools, communities, and workplaces, aiming to help individuals identify when someone may be in need of support. Eigel-Miller described the partnership with Xavier as potentially the “largest awareness campaign that we could ever do.”
The agreement encompasses more than just the patch. Xavier and 1N5 plan to implement mental wellness programming for student-athletes, provide education for coaches and athletic staff, and engage with students and the wider community. Details regarding financial arrangements have not been disclosed.
Carter Chambers, a player on the women's lacrosse team, shared insights on the challenges of discussing mental health in sports. Reflecting on a past injury that disrupted her identity as an athlete, she emphasized the importance of the patch in sparking conversations. “If me wearing that on my sleeve changes someone’s life for the better, then that’s the best thing that I can do,” Chambers remarked.
Individuals seeking immediate emotional support can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.