Bangor to host suicide prevention panel event

For the second year in a row, Bangor will host a gathering of people who have lost a family member, friend or other loved one to suicide.

In recognition of the seventh annual National Survivors of Suicide Day this weekend, local organizers have arranged for the live broadcast of a panel discussion from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in New York City. There will also be opportunity for socializing and grief counseling.

The free event will run from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Bangor Savings Bank Learning Center at 203 Maine Avenue in Bangor. Similar gatherings will take place at the same time in Augusta and Portland.

According to public health statistics, between 150 and 200 Mainers take their own lives each year. More than a third are young people between 14 and 24 years of age.

Last year’s survivors’ gathering in Bangor drew about 30 people; organizers hope to encourage greater participation this year.

For more information, contact grief counselor Julie Frost-Pettengill at 990-5849 or visit the Maine chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention online at www.afsp-maine.org