(Lebanon) -- A rising suicide rate in one midstate county has caught the attention of mental health professionals. A public service campaign is being launched to raise awareness about the problem. Lebanon County recorded 13 suicides through last month, equal to the number registered last year. If the pace continues, the county record of 19 suicides in a single year will be surpassed. Kevin Schrum is the administrator of the Lebanon County Mental Health/Mental Retardation/Early Intervention program. He says in an effort to help people take notice of whether someone may be thinking about taking their own life, a multimedia campaign "Watch for the Signs" has been rolled out. "To provide awareness about the risks of suicide and perhaps more importantly, to let folks know that there is help available and what to do if they're feeling suicidal tendencies themselves or see them in someone that's part of their life," he says. Schrum says some of the signs to look for include changes in sleeping or eating habits and whether a person has become withdrawn or is experiencing feelings of hopelessness. Phillhaven Behavioral Services is partnering with the county agency and covering the cost of the $10,000 newspaper, radio and television campaign.










