Virginia Tech Students Organize Suicide Prevention And Mental Health Awareness Campaign October 13-17

BLACKSBURG, Va., Oct. 10, 2003 – Virginia Tech students have organized "Choose Tomorrow," a weeklong suicide prevention and mental health awareness campaign aimed at raising greater awareness on this growing national epidemic.

Workshops, public lectures, informational displays and vigils will be held on campus beginning Oct. 13, and will conclude with a benefit auction on Oct. 17. Most events are free and open to the public (except where noted).

It is estimated that 54 million Americans are affected by mental illness each year, and some who suffer from mental illness may turn to suicide. Advances in medical research, treatment and counseling have helped to lessen the stigma often associated with mental illness.

Scheduled events include:

"Choose Tomorrow" is sponsored by the German Club of Virginia Tech. Further information is available by contacting John Grantham at jgrantha@vt.edu.