In the wake of a student suicide some months ago and the sometimes emotional debate that followed, Northern Michigan University has named a top staff person as special adviser for campus mental health and wellness for the upcoming 2022-23 academic year.

We like the move, if for no other reason than it demonstrates that NMU officials are willing to address what some have called a dearth of on-campus mental health services for students.

That said, our only question is, “Will it be enough?”

The top staff person who has agreed to take on new duties is Abigail Wyche, head of the Department of Sociology and Social Work.

She is well regarded on campus, Northern Michigan University President Kerri Schuiling wrote in a news statement.

“As most across our campus know, Abigail has impressive expertise and experience in understanding the relationships between risk factors among members of the campus community and protective factors in the environment,” she said. “She will advance initiatives designed to promote resilience among students, faculty and staff who confront adverse events that can negatively impact mental health and wellness.”

Ongoing is a mental health assessment due out in July.

As we said, we like the move but wonder if more mental health resources will be needed, given the challenges students at Northern Michigan University and elsewhere face.

Time and events will tell.

— The Mining Journal, Marquette