Walk of hope

DETERMINED: A large crowd turned out for Palmerston North's first HopeWalk on Sunday. PHOTO: KARLA KARAITIANA

More than 200 people dressed in yellow on Sunday morning and banded together to break the stigma that comes from too much silence surrounding suicide.

Palmerston North's first HopeWalk gave those affected by suicide a place to connect with others and help shed light on those struggling with mental health.

The 3km walk through the peaceful Victoria Esplanade bush was littered with specially painted rocks from supporters at Palmy Rocks and trees were adorned with messages of hope and encouragement.

A special board had been placed at the event's start line where people wrote messages of love to those who had taken their lives.

"For wonderful Madeleine. I carry your heart, I carry it in my heart. Love Mum," read one, while another said, "Miss you beautiful Jess. Your light and smile shines bright."

HopeWalk Palmerston North area champion Katina Hughes opened the event with an emotional tribute to her brother Adam who took his life in 2009, wearing a pendant with his image around her neck. "This is for you Adam. We are here for love."

Mrs Hughes says when Adam passed away she found it hard to talk to people without making them feel awkward. She felt that most people simply weren't sure of what to say or do. "It's fear of saying the wrong thing, then saying nothing, that creates silence."

She says it is out of this silence that the stigma is born. Addressing the crowd she told them, "Take a look around - this is what breaking the stigma looks like."

Hughes was overwhelmed by the number of people who turned up to the early-morning event and says it has reaffirmed to her how important it was to bring HopeWalk to Palmerston North.

"Beautiful feedback and photos are coming through from participants, and that's the most important thing. That positive experience was the purpose of this HopeWalk."

WHERE TO GET HELP

Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)

Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)

Youthline: 0800 376 633

Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)

Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (Mon-Fri, 1pm to 10pm. Sat-Sun, 3pm-10pm)

Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)

Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155

Samaritans 0800 726 666

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

For more on the HopeWalk movement go to hopewalk.co.nz.