LIFELINE CALLS ON AUSTRALIANS TO UNITE FOR 'OUT OF THE SHADOWS' WALKS ON WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY

This World Suicide Prevention Day (Wednesday 10 September), Lifeline is encouraging Australians to walk 9km to honour the nine lives lost to suicide every day in Australia.

Each year, thousands of people across Australia join an Out of the Shadows Walk in their community to honour and remember those who died by suicide and show support for Australians experiencing emotional distress or mental illness. 

Lifeline Australia Chair, Professor Steve Moylan, said bringing conversations about suicide into the light can play a crucial role in breaking down stigma. 

“Suicide can affect anybody, at any time—regardless of gender, age, background, or mental health history. Behind every statistic is a person, and there are many loved ones left behind learning to navigate life without them”, said Professor Moylan. 

“When communities talk openly and non-judgementally about mental health and suicide, it becomes a protective factor for everyone, because it really stimulates a sense of belonging and connectedness”.  

“Not only does this increase the likelihood of people reaching out for support when they need it, it also strengthens the community’s capacity to support those in crisis", he added. 

All funds raised from Out of the Shadows Walks ensure Lifeline can be there 24/7 for anyone who needs help and support, in the ways which suit them best. 

A donation of $39 can fund one life-saving phone call with a Lifeline Crisis Supporter, $50 can cover two life-saving text conversations, and $100 can support a one-hour virtual face-to-face session with a trained Lifeline Counsellor. 

In addition to the 9km walk, this year Lifeline is introducing a new one-week challenge (10-16 September) where participants can pledge to walk 63km to remember and honour the 63 Australians lost to suicide every week. 

If you, or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, we encourage you to connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable. 

You can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, chat to Lifeline online or access the Support Toolkit to self-manage what you’re going through at toolkit.lifeline.org.au. 

To donate to Lifeline, visit www.lifeline.org.au/donate. 

Find out more about Out of the Shadows Walks here.