ALBANY, N.Y. -- Some of the state's mental health advocates are laying out their legislative priorities. But there's one topic they would prefer not to discuss.

The Mental Health Association in New York State held a conference and rally at the capital. They're asking for things like affordable housing, community investment and school training.

What the group prefers not to discuss is gun legislation. That's because they say putting the two together can be harmful.

"What we talk about is prevention and early intervention and things like the mental health education bill. That's where we think the discussion should be. We don't comment on gun legislation because that's not something that's directly ... we have direct information about," says Glenn Liebman, the CEO of Mental Health Association in New York State.

Instead, the group says schools should create a culture of mental wellness.