EVERY year more than 700 000 people die due to suicide.

According to the World Health Organisation every suicide is a tragedy that affects friends, families and communities.

One person who is trying to break the stigma and raise awareness on suicide is local resident, Joy Chiang.

Chiang runs SOLOS (Survivors of Loved Ones Suicide), a support organisation for survivors of suicide and anyone whose life has been touched by suicide.

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She has encouraged Durbanites to join the upcoming Into the Light, a suicide awareness and remembrance walk on Sunday, September 13, starting at Durban View Park (Marine Drive).

“We will walk from Durban View Park to the Whale Bone Pier and back, honouring the memories of loved ones lost to suicide, supporting those impacted by suicide, and raising awareness about the importance of mental health and suicide prevention. This year’s walk is open to everyone and anyone passionate about mental health awareness and saving lives,” she explained.

She added that participants write messages of remembrance on rocks that they release into the ocean at the pier.

Chiang added the walk is wheelchair-friendly and suitable for all ages.

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“Together, we can help create a community where people feel safe to reach out, where mental health is openly discussed, and where no one feels they have to struggle alone,” she said.

• For more information, contact Joy on 083 256 5993 or Belinda on 076 444 5569.

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