On September 10, thousands of Australians will lace up their shoes and walk nine kilometres. Behind that distance is a heartbreaking reason. The nine kilometres represent the nine Australians who die by suicide each day, with Lifeline's annual Out of the Shadows Walk returning this World Suicide Prevention Day to remember those we've lost, support those who may be struggling and help raise funds for crisis support and suicide prevention services. Walks will take place in communities across Australia, giving people the opportunity to dedicate their kilometres to someone they've lost, walk alongside others who understand the impact of suicide or simply show their support for anyone currently going through their toughest moments. And you don't need to have a personal connection to suicide to take part. Lifeline is encouraging anyone who wants to show their support to join a walk, and while nine kilometres carries particular significance, there's no requirement to complete the full distance. Participants can choose a distance that feels meaningful and achievable for them. For Lifeline Australia CEO Graham Strong, bringing people together in this way can also help make conversations around suicide a little easier to have. “Every statistic represents a real person, and a circle of people learning to live with that loss,” Strong said. “When we walk side by side and speak openly about suicide, we show people they are not alone and that support is available.” The event also raises funds for Lifeline's crisis support and suicide prevention services, which are available to Australians around the clock via phone, text and online chat. Lifeline expects to respond to more than 1.5 million requests for support this year alone. Out of the Shadows Walks will take place around Australia on and around World Suicide Prevention Day, Thursday September 10. You can find your nearest walk, register to participate, make a donation or create your own walk through the Out of the Shadows website. Find an Out of the Shadows Walk near you.
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