That’s how many people were taken by suicide in Australia in 2022, and it has to change.
Every day, we’re working to change the statistics. September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. Here at Cars For Hope, it’s become the most important date on our calendar. Since 2013, our #IAMDRIVEN campaign every year is built around a statement and this year we’ve decided with “Reasons to stay alive”. We chose these words because we’ve been inspired by you, our car community, strangers who have became friends and served as characters in our story, friends who remind us that our story is worth fighting for.
We want people to know that their life matters, and their story is significant. More than anything, we want people to know that it’s okay to be honest, and it’s okay to ask for help. The highlight of our work is when people say things like, “I’m still alive because of Cars For Hope.” Or “I got help because of you guys.”
We need your help in bringing this message to people everywhere. Whether it’s online, at a car meet, the dinner table or the race track – our hope is that this campaign might lead to life-changing conversations. The Cars For Hope story has been one of people connecting with hope and help by talking about things that aren’t usually talked about. Too many people feel alone. Too many people feel invisible. This campaign is our attempt to tell people that they matter, that they’re not alone, that there are many reasons why you should stay.
Consider the things worth living for. What’s on your list? What are your reasons to stay alive?
We’re encouraging you to do your part and make your voice heard. Download and complete your own #IAMDRIVEN entry by telling us what car you drive and what drives you. Then, take a photo of your completed response and post it to social media using the #IAMDRIVEN hashtag in your post. Don’t forget to also tag @carsforhope on Instagram, Facebook and X so we can see it, like it, and repost it!
Show your support by purchasing an #IAMDRIVEN and ‘I Am Living’. Wearing an #IAMDRIVEN sticker is how you can raise awareness and make an impact on the lives of people affected by suicide. Show people that you care about every person affected by suicide.
Wear one on your car and join the conversation about suicide prevention and spread the word that it’s OK to talk about mental health. Included with every sticker is an info card that you can use to help spark conversations.
What you do for others is as important as what you do for yourself. Your donation to the Cars For Hope movement today helps support the people who need it and deserve it.
Your generous gift will enable us to keep doing what we do, like giving hope, connecting people to the help that they deserve, and investing directly into mental health research and treatment.