Making the point life matters

They came carrying snapshots, they came holding framed portraits, they came with placards recording dates of birth and dates of death.

They also came with the weight of their memories of their loved ones as around 250 people took part in Saturday’s Hopewalk, staged by the Life Matters Suicide Prevention Trust.

Life Matters founder Corinda Taylor urged marchers to say kind things to each other, to engage in conversation, and to be involved with their neighbours so everyone knew that they were not alone.

"This is about how strong we are," Mrs Taylor said.

"This is a march of unity, and hope."

Not talking about suicide only led to isolation and weakness at a time when family and friends left behind needed to be as strong as possible, she said.

Mrs Taylor founded Life Matters Suicide Prevention Trust after her son, Ross, committed suicide in 2013.

"I know if my boy was here today he would be supporting this walk for life," she said.

During a rally at the Octagon, a cheque for $4326 was presented to Life Matters by Tribal Nations Motorcycle Club, through their activities as Riders Against Teenage Suicide.

The club’s main fundraiser was a ride to Invercargill from Dunedin, which attracted riders from all over the South Island.

Mrs Taylor said 606 people took their own lives last year, and more than 5000 in the past decade.

She urged the Government to listen to the voices of those affected by suicide, and promised Life Matters would make their views known to the Government’s recently announced inquiry into mental health.

Need help?

Healthline: 0800 611-116

Lifeline Aotearoa: 0800 543-354

Suicide Crisis Helpline:

0508 828-865 (0508 TAUTOKO)

Samaritans: 0800 726-666

Alcohol Drug Helpline: 0800 787-797

General mental health inquiries:

0800 443-366

Depression Helpline: 0800 111-757