World Suicide Prevention Day

Thursday, 10 September 2015 15:40

A special gathering was held this afternoon in Southside Park to acknowledge those who suffer from suicidal thoughts

WOODSTOCK - Southside Park was buzzing with activity today for World Suicide Prevention Day.

A barbecue as well as guest speakers were on hand to discuss the stigma surrounding suicide. Executive Director of the Canadian Mental Health Association Oxford Branch, Mike McMahon, knows events like this help those in the community suffering from depression. "For some people today is a really tough day. We are hoping that events like this will help people who have experienced suicide in their family or in the people they connect with. We're hoping people can come to an event like this and see that they are not alone. Families do suffer so it is really important in our community that we know every year people in our community are dying by suicide."

McMahon explains there is help available for those who are struggling. "In Oxford County their are 3 organizations that really specifically deal with the crisis related to mental health. There is help available and for family members that are concerned, there is help because there is a secondary crisis. We hope that this can be an annual event especially to be in the heart of the community, I am hoping that they can look forward to next year."

Reaching out was the key message expressed in Southside Park as butterflies were released at the Boathouse Pavilion. Guest Speaker who has battled with suicide for over 20 years, Wesley Nightingale, understands why it is important to seek help. "There are people out there that understand and that won't judge you on what you are feeling and thinking. They will help you move past it and build yourself into someone that you can like, someone that doesn't have those despairing thoughts it doesn't have to be something that troubles you and takes you down that cycles into depression." While the reason for ending your life can vary it is important for family members to notice different signs and behaviour. As a healing process Nightingale now has made it his mission to help those that suffer from suicidal thoughts.