Ritchie Bill to Increase Suicide Prevention Education Awaits Governor's Signature

A bill (S.5860A) sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie to provide New York State Universities, community colleges and city universities with educational materials on depression and suicide prevention was approved by the Senate Wednesday and is now headed to the Governor’s desk.

“Unfortunately, recent, high-profile suicides have shown just how devastating the effects of depression can be on anyone, even those with fame and fortune,” said Senator Patty Ritchie. “Add that to the rise of opioid use and addiction, and suicide is becoming a path far too often traveled with long-lasting effects on family, friends and communities. Anything we can do to let people considering this avenue, especially those in college—who perhaps are away from home for the first time—to know that we care and there is help available, is an effort we must make.”

Recent data shows that from the year 1999 through 2014, suicide rates for both males and females—of all ages—have increased by 24 percent, with the biggest increases coming after 2006.  The New England Journal of Medicine says it has found that in many cases, opioid overdose deaths may actually be suicides. 

This bipartisan bill, which is sponsored in the Assembly by Assemblyman Felix Ortiz, directs the Office of Mental Health (OMH) to develop educational materials regarding suicide prevention for educators and for the OMH to work with the Department of Education to distribute the materials so educators can reach more students potentially battling depression. 

In addition, because suicide has such a tremendous impact on peers, faculty and staff at colleges and universities, this bill also addresses the needed for a post-vention plan in partnership with a behavioral health provider in the community to support family members, friends, professionals and peers in the wake of a loved one’s suicide.