Across Canada and across the globe, on Sept. 10 people will gather to show their support for suicide prevention, to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have died, comfort those who grieve and strengthen our connection with each other.
During World Suicide Prevention Day, we remember that by reaching out and being connected, we can save lives.
Preventing Suicide: Reaching out and Saving Lives is the theme that International Association for Suicide Prevention IASP has chosen for this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day.
This year, the theme encourages us all to consider the role that offering support may play in combating suicide. Bringing this theme home, the West Kootenay/Boundary Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention committee is promoting Reaching Out as the theme .
The committee is inviting everyone in the West Kootenay/Boundary region to reach out, show concern for each other and to join in a local kite flying ceremony.
As a symbol of World Suicide Prevention Day the kite and string represent our connection to the things we strive to stay connected to: hope, community, those we have lost, and those who struggle with thoughts of suicide. This year, the local committee has chosen to add the symbol of a hand and invites you to attach paper hands to kites to symbolize reaching out to each other for support.
The kite flying ceremony will take place on Sept. 10 at Lakeside Park in Nelson from noon to 1 p.m.
For more information on resources available to those affected by suicide, visit suicideprevention.ca. For support, contact the crisis line at 1-888-353-CARE (2273), and for more Information on the event, visit facebook.com/events/111524912529659.