COLOURED ribbons will be tied on the chain link fence on the Esplanade at Mornington Park to mark year’s World Suicide Prevention Day.
The is held to raise mental health awareness as well as acknowledge those that have been lost to suicide.
This year’s theme, Creating Hope Through Action, is a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and that the actions of individuals, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to someone who is struggling.
Preventing suicide is often possible and community is a key player in its prevention.
Organiser Rebecca Tyler said, “our community can make a difference to someone in their darkest moments – as a member of society, as a child, as a parent, as a friend, as a colleague or as a neighbour”.
“We can all play a role in supporting those experiencing a suicidal crisis or those bereaved by suicide.”
Ms Tyler said tying ribbons on the fence bordering Mornington Park was a COVID-19 safe alternative event showing community members’ “commitment to suicide prevention and recognition of those that have been lost to suicide”.
“As part of its commitment to positive mental health and suicide prevention, this year Chasing Change will be facilitating a register through the Chasing Change Facebook page to receive a free pack which will include information on local support services, a coffee voucher, Chasing Change merchandise and a ribbon to tie,” she said.
World Suicide Prevention Day is Friday 10 September. To register for this event and to learn more about Chasing Change visit: facebook.com/chasingchangespn
If you, or someone you care about, is in crisis and you think immediate action is needed, call 000, contact your doctor or mental health crisis service, or go to your local hospital emergency department.
For access to crisis support and suicide prevention services, call Lifeline on 13 11 44.
First published in the Mornington News – 24 August 2021
