The Geelong community has come together to honour and remember people who have died by suicide during World Suicide Prevention Day.
People were encouraged by Lifeline Geelong to walk 9km during the national Out of the Shadows Walk on September 10 to honour the nine lives lost to suicide every day in Australia.
Lifeline Direct chief executive Luke Lindsay said the walk was a chance for people to come together to remember loved ones and to show people in crisis that there was a community that cares.
“Bringing conversations about suicide into the light can play a crucial role in breaking down stigma,” he said.
“When we talk openly and non-judgmentally about mental health and suicide, it really stimulates a sense of belonging and connectedness.
“Suicide does not discriminate as it can affect anybody at any time and behind every statistic is a person, and there are many loved ones left behind learning to navigate life without them.”
All funds raised from the walk will ensure Lifeline can be there 24/7 for anyone who needs help and support during a time that suits them best.
This year’s Out of the Shadows Walk participants can also pledge to walk 63km between September 10 and 16, which recognises the 63 Australians lost to suicide every week.
Visit lifelinedirect.org.au/geelongswv/events/ootsgeelong to register for the walk or to donate to Lifeline.
Help is available through Lifeline by calling 13 11 14, visiting toolkit.lifeline.org.au or texting 0477 131 114.
