I'm walking to remember those lost to suicide and help people in crisis

With suicide prevention month approach us in a couple of weeks, every year I love to bring this matter back to the fore-front of our attention because it is a very real and very important topic of conversation to be had, shared and heard.

54,000 Australians attempt to take their life every year with over 3,000 (an average of 9 a day) ending their lives to suicide in that 365 day period. Every single one of these people regardless of their gender, age, financial status the list goes on need help, support and relief for their struggles or dark times.

In saying that, to help those struggling or those who are unable to see the light in life I am taking part in the @lifelineaustralia Out of the Shadows walk. Where on Suicide Preventative day (September 10th)
I’ll be remembering those who have lost to suicide and those who help save the lives of others by walking 9kms for the 9 people lost to suicide every day.

With this small action I am part of something that ensures no one has to walk alone and with the funds raised for lifeline it provides suicide prevention services and support for Australians in need. Lifeline receives over 1 million contacts from people in crisis each year, so if you have the opportunity every dollar raised could be another life saved.

Today and always there will always be a reason for you or someone you know to live and although you might not see it all it takes is a simple question, action or conversation to lift a weight off someone’s shoulders. Normalise mental health check-ins, strong and open support systems and most of all safe spaces for communication. There are so many amazing people out there and around you that care more than you know about your beautiful being.