Suicide loss survivors Marnie Vandenbroek-Hookey, Leanne Fera and Chynna DaSilva join Suicide Loss Support Group Co-Facilitator Heather Taylor (third from right) to model t-shirts designed for Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. Submitted photo by Julie MacCrae Photography.Suicide loss survivors Marnie Vandenbroek-Hookey, Leanne Fera and Chynna DaSilva join Suicide Loss Support Group Co-Facilitator Heather Taylor (third from right) to model t-shirts designed for Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. Submitted photo by Julie MacCrae Photography.
Sarnia

T-shirt campaign hoped to start conversation about suicide

Project Mental Wellness has come up with a way to start a conversation about suicide in advance of International World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.

Founder Leanne Fera said they've had a t-shirt designed to raise awareness to the act.

"People don't want to talk about this kind of stuff, they just don't," said Fera. "So having the community show support for people who struggle with mental health, people who have lost a loved one to suicide... These t-shirts are going to allow those conversations to start."

Fera said the colour was an easy decision.

"This is a world wide recognized day. So, their colours are yellow and black and so we've gone with that," Fera said.  

She thinks the graphic is fun and eye-catching.

"It kind of makes people stop and say, 'oh, what's on your t-shirt?' So, it's interesting because when you're wearing something like this and people realize they can talk about mental health, you would be shocked at how open that conversation is and what people will share with you," Fera said.

The t-shirts are $35 each and must be pre-ordered online at www.projectmentalwellness.com

The minimal proceeds from sales will go directly towards funding local awareness campaigns, and providing resources to and supporting community initiatives.

Bulk orders for work teams, sports teams or other groups are welcome.

The deadline to purchase a t-shirt is Friday, August 30.

Those needing a safe space to talk can call or text the Suicide Crisis Helpline by dialing 9-8-8 for assistance.

If your safety is at risk, you're encouraged to call 9-1-1 right away. 

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