Fayette

Presentation at Fayette focuses on suicide awareness and prevention

Suicide awareness and prevention was the focus of a special presentation at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus Dec. 5. The event was organized by Penn State Fayette student and Alpha Psi Beta President Lindsay Miller, who brought together numerous individuals from the community to discuss this serious topic. Participating in the event were Fayette County Commissioner Angela Zimmerlink; Bethany Connors from the Fayette County Suicide Prevention Task Force; Shani Smith, lead crisis worker at Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services; Melanie McMillen, director of outpatient and crisis services at Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services; and Beth Vilsack, who shared the personal story of the loss of her son to suicide. Zimmerlink issued a proclamation declaring December as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. Presenters pointed out that suicide is a serious mental health challenge, and it is a growing problem not only in Fayette County and our nation, but around the world. Unfortunately, suicide is one of the leading causes of death of young people ages 15-24. Anyone in crisis — or if you know someone in crisis — can obtain confidential help from Fayette County’s local crisis hotline, 24-hours a day, by calling (724) 437-1003.

From left, Bethany Connors, Lindsay Miller, Angela Zimmerlink, Shani Smith, Melanie McMillen and Beth Vilsack. Credit: Nicole GuapponeAll Rights Reserved.

Last Updated November 18, 2010

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