Out of the Shadows 2022

Lifeline Tasmania’s Annual Out of the Shadows World Suicide Prevention Day in Person in 2022

Saturday 10th September, 2022, marks World Suicide Prevention Day. Lifeline Tasmania annually hosts an Out of the Shadows Walk to bring communities together, recognise the day, reflect on those we have lost, and to bring the conversation about suicide out of the darkness and into the light. 

This year, we will ensure our events COVID-safe and accessible to all, for the first time since 2019, our Out of the Shadows events across Australia will be run in-person. Lifeline Tasmania will host the walk in Hobart on Friday the 9th of September, at 6am from the Parliamentary Lawns. 

Lifeline Tasmania CEO, Debbie Evans, spoke about the significance of the Out of the Shadow community events in reducing suicide and for those who have lost someone to suicide.

“Losing someone to suicide can be devastating for families, friends, and communities,” said Debbie, “while many of us may not still be able to connect physically together this World Suicide Prevention Day, we hope that our Out of the Shadows events across Tasmania can be a place of coming together, remembrance, hope and the sense that you are not alone.”

Tasmanians can also attend community organised events in Devonport and Burnie and Smithton which will be supported by Lifeline Tasmania’s Standby Support After Suicide Service. Tasmanians can find information about their local community organised walks in the coming weeks.

“At Lifeline Tasmania, our vision is a Tasmania free of suicide. Each day, 9 Australian lives are lost to suicide, and events such as Out of the Shadows can help change the conversation around suicide, reduce the stigma, and let those who are struggling know there is hope and support,” said Ms. Evans.

“Our thoughts today are with those who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, struggling with their mental health, or have lost someone to suicide,” said Lifeline Tasmania CEO, Debbie Evans. “Lifeline Tasmania wants every Tasmanian to know, no matter what they are going through, you are never alone and there is help and support available.”

Lifeline Tasmania’s message is simple:

Ask. Stay & Listen. Get Help!

• If you see someone experiencing personal crisis, ask them directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?” This shows them that you care and encourages them to talk.

• Listen closely and let them express their feelings. Stay with them or find someone else reliable to stay with them.

• Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or dial 000 if life is in danger. And get support for yourself too.

  “Anyone that needs support this World Suicide Prevention Day, can be sure that Lifeline will be there for them 24/7 on 13 11 14 or if they wish to speak to a fellow Tasmanian, they can call A Tasmanian Lifeline on 1800 98 44 34 8am-8pm, 7 days a week,” said Debbie.

Community Walks

Hobart: 6am, Friday 9th September, Parliament Lawns. Register here.

Launceston: 6am, Friday 9th September, City Park. Register here. 

Burnie: From 5:30pm, Friday 9th September, Burnie Park. More information here. 

Smithton: 5:30pm, Saturday 10th September, CHArts Pop Up Gallery (Rural Health Building). Register here.