JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) – A bill to promote awareness and research on mental illness among medical students is moving forward in the Missouri House.

House members gave initial approval in a voice vote Wednesday.

Republican sponsor Rep. Keith Frederick says medical school students are at risk of depression and suicide but sometimes are concerned that seeking help could hurt their careers.

Democratic Rep. Genise Montecillo, who has spoken about her own suicide attempt last year while lobbying for the bill, says it would help students looking to enter a career field centered on helping others.

The bill would create a panel to review medical education in the state and give members the authority to conduct a study on depression and suicide among medical students.

It needs another vote to pass the House.