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Ramsey High School Footballers Tackle Suicide Prevention

RAMSEY, N.J. -- Although the Ramsey High School football team lost a close one to Verona this weekend, both schools used the game to raise awareness about suicide prevention, MyVeronaNJ.com reports.

MORE: MyVeronaNJ.Com

MORE: MyVeronaNJ.Com

Photo Credit: Virgina Citrano (MyVeronaNJ.com)

Ramsey has been participating in the "Stigma Free" initiative to educate residents about mental illness and raise awareness of local mental health resources and in "Send Silence Packing," a suicide and mental health awareness exhibition at Ramapo College.

Both teams wore wear socks in the signature purple and teal colors of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the report says.

Verona High’s cheerleaders, color guard and marching band also adding purple and teal ribbons to their usual maroon and while uniforms.

September was National Suicide Prevention Month.

GAME STORY: Ramsey High School had scored two touchdowns in the first quarter seemed destined for a third. Then two very important things happened. SEE: Verona Tops Ramsey As Teams Raise Awareness For Suicide Prevention

“At this age, it is very tough," Robert Merkler, VHS's director of athletics, told MyVeronaNJ.com. "[N]ot only are our students dealing with the pressures of school, social life, and being a teen but also with trying to learn about yourself.

"This is just a small gesture on our part, but...maybe it helps open up a dialogue with a student from Verona or Ramsey who is struggling and we can help them get through what they are facing.”

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