Brandi McHagh, courtesy of Saint John Suicide Prevention Committee on Facebook.
Saint John’s Suicide Prevention Committee is hoping to paint the town yellow Friday.
The committee is holding Yellow Day, and all Saint Johners are encouraged to wear yellow clothes to show support of mental health issues and suicide awareness.
Committee member Brandi McHargh says they hope the day helps those struggling with mental health issues feel less alone.
“The overarching message is really that you’re not alone, it’s okay to not be okay,” McHargh said. “By wearing yellow you’re indicating to all your friends, family, colleagues, you’re here as a support. You’re somebody that they can go to if they need to reach out.”
She cites a statistic that shows suicide is the ninth leading cause of death in Canada, and an average of 10 Canadians die each day by suicide.
By showing you can be a source of support for the people in your life, McHargh hopes more Saint Johners will be willing to reach out before their mental health issues get overwhelming.
“Sometimes it’s difficult to find the courage to reach out, or call Mobile Mental Health or one of those places. Sometimes it’s just knowing you have friends and family that are supportive.”
Anyone that does participate in Yellow Day is invited to post a photo of their outfit using #SuicidePreventionSJ.
On Monday, February 8 the Sucide Prevention Committee will do a draw on Facebook live, with the winner earning a mental health break prize pack.
“We’re really just encouraging everybody to take some time to have a little mental health break,” McHargh said. “Whether it’s from work or every day stress.”
