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Cycle Against Suicide cycles in solidarity with global supporters on World Suicide Prevention Day.
MARKING World Suicide Prevention Day, supporters of Irish charity, Cycle Against Suicide, demonstrated their support in raising awareness of the risks of suicide this evening (Tuesday 10th September) by cycling around Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of the Michael Laurence Cycle for Life, organised by Cycle Against Suicide volunteer, Dermot Wheatman. Collectively almost 100 cyclists helped to contribute over 1,000 kilometres to the ‘Cycle the Globe’ international initiative.
Following the cycle, family and friends of those who have been affected by suicide came together for the ‘Lighting of Lights’ - a poignant moment on World Suicide Prevention Day that honoured all of those who have lost their life through suicide. The charity and its supporters came together to encourage awareness of suicide prevention in a bid to help alleviate the stigma surrounding this major public mental health issue. Established in 2013, Cycle Against Suicide’s mission is to create a culture were suicide and mental health stigma are replaced by hope, understanding and accessible help.
Pictured are Cycle Against Suicide supporters from Finglas, Amy Martin with her son Jake O’Callaghan (7) and his friend Robert Fleming (9).
Photo Chris Bellew /Fennell Photography.
In recognition of the severe impact of COVID-19 on mental wellbeing across the country, Cycle Against Suicide is calling on people to come together for the 'Lighting of Lights' at 8 pm on World Suicide Prevention Day, this Thursday, September 10th.
Traditionally marked as a day to honour those who have lost their lives to suicide, this year’s event takes on even greater significance because of the immense toll the pandemic has taken on people’s physical health and emotional wellbeing.
Organisers are asking the people of the South East to get involved in the 'Lighting of Lights' by lighting a candle with family or a friend before posting your pictures on social media using the hashtags #LightingTheLight #ItsOKNotToFeelOK and the handle @cycleagainstsuicide.
The gesture aims to offer a symbol of empathy, hope and support for each other during these enduring times.
The 'Lighting of Lights' not only honours those who have died by suicide but also those who have lost loved ones to suicide and those battling mental health challenges.
'Lighting of Lights' stands as Ireland's beacon of hope, shining bright in the midst of darkness, bringing hope in the midst of despair, as we stand together in empathy, hope and support and to ensure that we all come through this crisis together.
