Participants hold a banner at the war memorial outside the Brandon Police Service at 2015's Light Up the World Purple walk. (Logan Praznik/The Quill)
It’s 2017 and there are yearly events such as Bell’s “Let’s Talk Day” but somehow there is still stigma around mental health, and bullying and suicide still occur despite awareness and education about these issues. Bulling does not stop in school and often continues into the workplace and daily life for many people. Mental health affects many of us, yet there is still stigma around it and talking about mental health can result in judgement. Suicide is connected to both of these issues and is a growing topic today with shows such as “13 Reasons Why”. All three of these can affect anyone, your friends, family, the person sitting next to you as you read this article, and it’s time to do something about it. It’s time to end the stigma and raise awareness and make education about these topics more readily available.
October 10th is World Mental Health Day. The theme this year according to the Light Up Purple website is “mental health in the workplace.” Light Up Purple is connected to the Amanda Todd Legacy Society. The Amanda Todd Legacy Society looks to promote awareness about bulling, cyber abuse and mental health in memory of Amanda Todd. These issues are hard to talk about and bring up a lot of emotion for many people, but they are important.
Light Up the World Purple in an international event, and takes place in Brandon on October 10th. It aims to bring awareness to mental health, suicide and bullying and the connection between these issues. There will be speeches, as well as resources available on-site. The event begins at 6pm in the BU Courtyard, and the walk will begin shortly after 7pm. The walk will end back in the Courtyard, with coffee and cake available. It is asked that those who plan to attend dress in purple if they have any. Whether you have experienced any of these issues personally, or are just hoping to be a support for those who have come out on October 10th and help Light Up the World Purple.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts please call the suicide hotline at: 1-800-273-8255