Joy Emeh
Updated on: October 10, 2024 12:10 am GMT
The Death Toll of Youth Suicide: A Harrowing Visual Reminder in London
In a moving display aimed at raising awareness of youth suicide in the UK, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) has unveiled an installation featuring 6,929 birthday balloons at Westfield London. Each balloon represents a young life lost to suicide in the past decade, symbolizing not just the tragic statistics but the potential experiences of those lives—each balloon marked with the age that individual would have reached on their next birthday. The event runs from September 9 to 11, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.
Campaign Background and Goals
CALM’s initiative, titled “Missed Birthdays,” is designed to illuminate the grim reality of rising youth suicide rates. By showcasing balloons that signify lives tragically cut short, the campaign seeks to provoke discussions about mental health, the stigma surrounding suicide, and the importance of seeking help. The organization collaborates with bereaved families to share their stories, aiming to foster understanding and connection around this pressing social issue.
The statistics are sobering: nearly 7000 young individuals have died by suicide in the UK over the last decade. Each balloon acts not only as a reminder of these lost lives but also as an invitation for families and communities to talk openly about mental health struggles.
Voices of Grief: Families Share Their Stories
Numerous bereaved families from across the country are supporting this poignant campaign by sharing personal narratives of their loved ones. Joanna Garvey, mother of 20-year-old Will, reflected on her son’s life, describing him as kind-hearted and fun-loving. She noted that by participating in this campaign, she feels Will continues to make a positive impact and encourages others to understand that mental health issues can affect anyone.
Another participant, Jude from Cheshire, shared her story of her son Sam, who was also 20 when he died. Through her words, she emphasized the often-hidden struggles that can accompany seemingly happy lives, expressing her hope that this campaign will resonate and educate others about the reality of youth suicide.
The spokesperson for Jane, the mother of Tom who passed away at 19, stressed the importance of understanding the signs of mental distress. Despite his cheerful demeanor and a wide circle of friends, Tom never expressed feelings of depression, a reality that underscores the complexity of mental health challenges in young individuals.
The Importance of Awareness
This campaign shines a light on why prevention and mental health education are crucial in addressing youth suicide. Statistics indicate alarming trends, and organizations like CALM are key players in providing resources and support aimed at lowering these numbers.
The impactful visual of 6,929 balloons not only honors those who have lost their lives but also serves as a clarion call for society to take action. As Saroj, who lost her son Sadil, remarked, supporting the campaign is invaluable for not only the grieving families but for societal change as well.
Engaging Communities and Resources Available
The 2023 campaign at Westfield London encourages community involvement and aims to foster meaningful discussions about mental health. Beyond the balloon installation, CALM promotes continued education around the subject, providing an array of resources for individuals seeking help or looking to support others. Their dedicated suicide prevention helpline is available from 5 PM to midnight every day, providing a confidential and anonymous service.
Moving Forward: The Impact Beyond the Installation
After September 11, all the balloons used in the installation will be donated to the Children’s SCRAP project, a sustainable initiative allowing for the balloons to be transformed into new art and craft projects, further extending the impact of this campaign beyond its initial purpose.
For those affected by the emotional challenges associated with suicide and its aftermath, CALM offers various resources and support options. Anyone seeking help is encouraged to reach out through CALM’s helpline at 0800 585858 or explore additional mental health services available across the UK through resources like Where’s Your Head At?
This initiative demonstrates both a call to action and a tribute to those whose lives were lost, challenging society to confront the stigma surrounding mental health and fostering a safer, more supportive environment for youth struggling with suicidal thoughts.
If you want to learn more about mental health support and ways to prevent suicide, you can check out CALM’s website.
