To Write Love On Her Arms announce their 13th annual suicide prevention campaign titled Please Stay Alive. The nonprofit is committed to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. Originating in Cocoa, FL in 2006, they have donated over $3.7 million directly into treatment and recovery making it possible for people to access mental health care when they need it the most.
The need for mental health services is so great, and yet still today resources remain scarce. Statistics show one death every 11 minutes, so that’s over 50,000 people that have taken their lives in one year. Indigenous Americans also have the highest rate of suicide in the U.S. Resources are even more strained since the decline of the economy, which has increased the rates in suicide.
“Suicide prevention must extend beyond clinical settings and into every facet of our daily lives. We believe most people would help someone they knew was suicidal—but many don’t know how they can help,” says Lindsay Kolsch, TWLOHA Co-Executive Director.
“This campaign is trying to change that by giving practical steps and critical information that allow us to reach someone struggling, connect them to care, and ensure individuals feel heard and supported. We are not seeing the rates of suicide reverse, so we keep fighting to bring more people into this work. It is our collective effort that can transform awareness into action and hope. A hope that people will stay alive.
Musicians and celebrity endorsements including Miley Cyrus, Joaquin Phoenix, James Earl Jones, A Day to Remember, and so many more have helped to support the mission and now the non-profit has gone worldwide.
People can contribute this year by obtaining a suicide prevention pack, donating directly to the campaign, rallying their community to fundraise for mental health care scholarships, streaming on Twitch, joining the challenge on Facebook to complete 300K steps in September, and following @twloha and engaging with the conversations and community happenings online throughout the campaign. #PleaseStayAlive
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