Suicide Prevention Featured on Southern Tier Close Up

September is Suicide Prevention awareness month.  Appearing on the September 18th edition of the weekly local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up, Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier Development Director, Joanne Weir and Director of Adult Wellness Services, Sarah Soules talk about breaking down the stigmas associated with mental illness and suicide.

MHAST has been holding a series of Mental Health First Aid Training Programs both for general certification and dealing with issues specific to youth.

Soules also provides some of the specific warning signs and responses that are taught in the training sessions.

Weir details plans for an upcoming Awareness Bike Ride that starts in Connecticut and ends in Broome County as well as efforts to spread the message of Power to the Purple getting the conversation started about suicide and suicide prevention.

People can get more information on mental health issues, suicide and scheduling a Mental Health First Aid Training by going to www.yourmha.com or calling (607) 771-8888. Joanne Weir's extension is 399.

Southern Tier Close Up can be heard Saturday afternoons at 12:10 on News Radio 1290 WNBF.