Local students spread vital message

Two Coudersport High School students traveled to Elizabethtown to share stories about depression and to promote the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program's message, "It's Okay to Ask for Help."

Shannon Keating and Tyler Cole spent two days at Elizabethtown High School talking with ninth-graders about the dangers of untreated depression. The presentation was tied in with a mental health unit each ninth-grader must take.

Keating challenged students to become active in the fight against suicide. She encouraged the students to start their own school-based Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Club in order to help others.

Cole discussed ways to promote awareness and gave students ideas, such as hanging posters and becoming involved in community events.

They were invited back to Elizabethtown in the spring to present Yellow Ribbon information to additional students.