Seema Khaneja MD
Updated on: October 9, 2024 6:24 am GMT
A Community United: The Out of the Shadows Walk on World Suicide Prevention Day
Local Residents Gather for a Meaningful Cause
On Tuesday, September 10, at the break of dawn, residents of Wollongong and the Northern Rivers community gathered for the ‘Out of the Shadows Walk,’ a poignant event organized by Lifeline South Coast in honor of World Suicide Prevention Day. Starting at 5:45 a.m., participants walked a scenic two-kilometer stretch along Wollongong’s Blue Mile, aiming to foster awareness, remembrance, and solidarity for those affected by suicide.
Walking into the Light of Hope
The symbolic nature of the walk was highlighted by Lifeline South Coast representative Courtney Moore, who noted that starting in the dark, participants would literally walk into the light. “When we start, it’s still dark, then the dawn breaks, and that signifies walking out of darkness into the light of hope and connection,” Moore explained, inviting anyone from the community to engage in this meaningful event. The walk was designed to be accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels, ensuring that everyone could participate.
The Importance of Community Support
Australia faces a significant mental health crisis, with over 3,000 deaths by suicide occurring annually. This issue disproportionately affects young people, with nearly a third of deaths in individuals aged 15 to 24 being attributed to suicide in 2022. As Lifeline South Coast prepares for what is anticipated to be one of its busiest years, community events like the Out of the Shadows Walk aim to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversations around suicide.
Encouraging Conversation and Reducing Stigma
The Out of the Shadows Walk is not just for those directly affected by suicide. It serves as a platform for anyone wishing to support awareness efforts and foster a more compassionate community. “What we’re hoping to see is community members from all corners lace up and join us at sunrise,” Moore stated, emphasizing the importance of compassion and connection in creating a supportive environment.
A Day of Remembrance and Reflection
Following the walk, participants took part in a brief ceremony featuring speakers who shared insights on mental health and suicide prevention. Attendees were also given the opportunity to leave messages on Lifeline’s Tree of Hope, fostering a space for personal reflection and tributes to loved ones lost. A coffee van was available for those looking to linger and connect with fellow participants, enriching the communal experience.
Creating Lasting Conversations
Renee Green, CEO of Lifeline South Coast, expressed that the event’s overarching goal is to illuminate the pressing issue of mental health within the community. “The walk is about bringing the community together to show that there is support available. It’s about reducing self-stigma among those who experience mental ill-health and those who support them, as well as reducing public stigma by changing attitudes and behaviors in the general community,” she noted.
Join the Cause: How to Get Involved
The Out of the Shadows Walk in Wollongong is just one of many events taking place across Australia, including a concurrent walk in Batemans Bay. Participants were encouraged to register for free through Lifeline South Coast. For those feeling overwhelmed, Lifeline offers various resources for support, including a 24-hour crisis hotline available via phone at 13 11 14 or text at 0477 131 114.
Final Thoughts: A Collective Effort for Change
As communities observe World Suicide Prevention Day, events like the Out of the Shadows Walk play a crucial role in the fight against mental health stigma and the promotion of communal support systems. By uniting in purpose, participants hope to spark enduring conversations and create an atmosphere of compassion for those grappling with mental health challenges.
If you need help with mental health, you can find useful resources and support on Lifeline’s official website.
