Senator Carlucci & Mental Health Association of Rockland Call for More Suicide Prevention Education in Schools

David Carlucci

September 5, 2014

 In front of Nyack High School AP Psychology students, Senator David Carlucci (D-Rockland/Westchester) and Marcella Amorese & Nicole Sirignano of the Mental Health Association of Rockland today discussed the importance of suicide prevention in our schools.

Senator Carlucci discussed a piece of legislation that will provide suicide prevention education throughout our schools in New York State.

The bill, S7359, provides that the office of mental health and the education department shall identify or develop materials for educators regarding suicide prevention measures and signs of depression among school-aged students. The information will then be available on the Internet and may be included in schools.

Senator David Carlucci said, "We must continue to raise awareness and treat mental illness with the seriousness it deserves while working to eliminate the stigma that stops so many suffering from seeking help. Providing materials for school districts to tackle suicide prevention head on will go a long way in educating our young people on how to help their friends and family in need."

Marcella Amorese, Director of Children and Family Services at MHA of Rockland said, "Educating young people on the dangers of suicide is critical to saving lives in our communities. I want to thank Senator Carlucci for working to provide educational resources to students across our State."