On an ordinary day at North Carolina State University, a silence fell with the news of the death of 21-year-old Matthew Haynes. A junior member of the Theta Chi fraternity, Haynes was found lifeless at his off-campus residence, an apparent suicide. His sudden death has sent ripples of sorrow through the university community and his hometown of Waynesville, even as it draws attention to the mental health crisis among young adults and college students nationwide.
Remembering Matthew Haynes
Matthew Haynes was not just a student; he was a beloved friend, fraternity brother, and aspiring agriculture major. Known for his kindness, thoughtfulness, and willingness to lend a helping hand, Haynes had a reputation for lighting up any room he entered. He was not just academically accomplished, but also a standout basketball star at Haywood Christian Academy. His love for the outdoors often found him planning hunting trips with friends. One such friend, Jonathan Roberts, recalls their last conversation, filled with future plans, now left unfulfilled.
A Community in Mourning
The Theta Chi fraternity, still grappling with the loss, plans to hold a gathering to honor Haynes’s life. In a poignant tribute, they expressed the devastating impact of his untimely departure on both the fraternity and the wider university community. The university, silenced by the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, has not yet commented on the incident. Attempts to reach the Theta Chi chapter and its president have so far met with no response.
The Silent Crisis
However, Haynes’s death is not an isolated incident. In the 2022-2023 school year, NC State confirmed seven suicides, suggesting an alarming trend. His death, like others, underscores the urgent need for accessible and inclusive mental health services for young adults and college students. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and seeking help when needed. As we remember Matthew Haynes, let us not forget the silent crisis that took him from us and work towards a future where no student feels alone.
