Suicide a universal problem and issue, rally told

Hundreds march down George St as part of Dunedin’s HopeWalk to the Octagon on Saturday. Photo by...
Hundreds march down George St as part of Dunedin’s HopeWalk to the Octagon on Saturday. Photo by Linda Robertson.
Hundreds marched in Dunedin on Saturday in hope of breaking the silence surrounding suicide.

About 300 people joined in Dunedin’s HopeWalk from Great King St to the Octagon on Saturday morning.

The HopeWalk movement aims to raise awareness of  suicide issues and promote prevention agencies.

Those gathered in the Octagon stood in  silence to remember and mourn victims of suicide.

Life Matters Suicide Prevention Trust ambassador Scott Weatherall said while the day was challenging for some people, it provided an opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives lost as a result of suicide.

"That’s what the HopeWalk is all about, that people don’t feel they are  alone at any time," he said.

"It’s about being here together and supporting one another."

Dunedin MPs and Otago rugby players were among those in HopeWalk offering support to the cause.

"It was a fantastic turnout," Mr Weatherall said after the event.

"It was a genuine representation of our whole community, which was really cool.

"Everyone was there for the same cause, to support each other, to celebrate and to remember."

The turnout exceeded expectations and the HopeWalk would become an annual event to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.

Speaking at the event, Kati Huirapa Runaka ki Puketeraki upoko David Ellison said suicide was an issue pervading all walks of life.

"Today’s march isn’t only a problem for our own Maori people.

"This is a universal problem and issue which today we are bringing out in the open and offering our love and sympathy and understanding to those whanaus and families who have had to deal with the problem of suicide," he said.

timothy.brown@odt.co.nz

 

Where to get help

Lifeline: 0800 543-354

Depression Helpline (8am-midnight): 0800 111-757

Healthline: 0800 611-116

Samaritans: 0800 211-211

Suicide Crisis Helpline:  0508 828-865

Youthline: 0800 376-633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz

Rural Support Trust: 0800 787-254

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