Walking towards hope for suicide prevention
WITH the ripple effect of the pandemic still making itself felt across the world, there’s never been a more important time to check in on family and friends, particularly those who may be struggling to cope with tougher than usual times.
It’s in this light, that the National Association for Loss and Grief (NALAG) will again take to the streets for its Walk Towards Hope, an annual event aimed at promoting suicide awareness, prevention and support for those bereaved.
Forced into cyber space for the past two years thanks to COVID, the walk will this year bring people together physically to walk across Dubbo’s LH Ford Bridge in a symbolic gesture to not only show care and support, but raise awareness.
To be held on Saturday, October 29, the event involves a walk across the bridge from east to west, a remembering ceremony and free BBQ lunch, and people who take part will be given a
commemorative t-shirt.
According to NALAG CEO Debbie Todkill, the Walk Towards Hope – to which everyone is invited – is a chance for the wider community to unite in the common hope of making a difference for people at risk of suicide not only here at home but all over the world.
“The Walk Towards Hope is an opportunity for people from all walks of life to come together and demonstrate that we, as a community, care about preventing suicide in Dubbo and the world over.”
The event aims to encourage people to talk about suicide, and to generate further community discussion about how to prevent it.
“As members of communities, it is our responsibility to look out for those who may be struggling, check in with them, and encourage them to tell their story in their own way and at their own pace,” Ms Todkill said.
The Australian Institute of
Health and Welfare has acknowledged that suicidal ideation and self-harm remains high in 2022, particularly among young adults, with 12 per cent of Australian adults having reported severe psychological distress this year.
Pandemic isolation, financial stress and online bullying have been identified as possible reasons for the concerning statistics.
Ms Todkill believes ending stigma around mental health is key to eliminating self-harm and suicide in Australia.
“Talking openly about suicide and showing those at risk that we care, empowers them to speak up and ask for help.”
The walk will also feature a Remembering Ceremony, to acknowledge and remember those who have lost their lives to suicide.
Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders, who will take part in the walk alongside special guest Bronnie Taylor, NSW Minister for Mental Health, commended NALAG on its initiatives in the
space.
“The Walk Towards Hope is always a really moving gathering, bringing people together to remember those we’ve lost and hope for a better future.
“I’d really encourage everyone to come along, particularly people who have been touched by the tragedy of suicide or those who want to show support for family, friends or community members who have been impacted by suicide.”
Everyone is welcome to attend the Walk Towards Hope, which will commence at 11am from Bob Jane T-marts on Macquarie Street and conclude at 1:30pm at Lions Park in West Dubbo.
Participation is completely free, with no prior registration necessary. For more information, visit www.nalag.org.au/events or phone the NALAG Dubbo office on 6882 9222.
If you or someone you know requires urgent crisis support, call Lifeline at any time on 13 11 14, or in an emergency, dial 000.