SUNBURY– Sunday was national suicide prevention day, and locally there has been an effort to bring support groups closer to the Susquehanna Valley. Joseph Miller, Chairman of the Central Pennsylvania chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is at the forefront of this effort, “We had the goal with the increasing number of suicides we have seen here in central and north central Pennsylvania to bring those closer to home. So, we are at the point where every Thursday evening somewhere in the region there is an active support group taking place.”
Miller says the groups have really made a difference in the lives of loss survivors, “It’s been interesting since these groups have been functioning now for a while to see how those who have had their loss a little farther in the rear view mirror, have been able to come aside those who have had their loss more recent and be able to walk with them through that journey and help them.”
Along with weekly support groups the Central PA Chapter is hosting several community walks this fall with hopes to have a walk this spring at the Shikellamy State Park Overlook. You can find out more information at lifeisworthliving.org (Sarah Benek)
