Today – September 10 – is World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD). Launched in 2003, organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and co-sponsored by the WHO (World Health Organization), the purpose of this day is to raise awareness around the globe that suicide can be prevented. The theme for 2018 is “Working Together to Prevent Suicide.”
According to the WHO, suicide is the second-leading cause of death among those 15–29 years old.
“We [chose] this theme as it highlights the most essential ingredient for effective global suicide prevention-collaboration,” the IASP said in a release. “We all have a role to play and together we can collectively address the challenges presented by suicidal behavior in society.”
In an effort to support this wider initiative, ManyVids has launched a suicide prevention initiative. Starting today, the site will offer a confidential counseling service, MV Hotline, free to all adult performers. Hotline services are not limited to ManyVids performers.
The MV Hotline number is 1-888-350-3051.
“Adult workers often find themselves feeling isolated and hopeless. And, because their families and friends don’t always approve of their lifestyles, they are left feeling that there is nowhere else to turn,” said Bella French, CEO and co-founder of ManyVids. “We want them to know they can turn to us.”
A social media campaign in remembrance of August Ames, who took her own life in 2017, has been launched alongside the hotline. The campaign includes banners featuring Ames and the MV Hotline Number.
According to ManyVids representatives, the campaign is an effort to counteract the negativity that is often seen on social media. The organization is asking fans and like-minded individuals to spread positivity via the social handles and tags @ManyVids and #WeAreMany. People may also use the banner pinned at the tweet below:
https://twitter.com/ManyVids/status/1039138752722083840
In the wake of Ames’ passing, there was considerable debate amongst members of the community regarding the most useful and effective ways to reach people in crisis. There was no consensus regarding what would work for everyone. This is because no one solution or mode of support is universally applicable.
The MV Hotline is a positive effort, but we all must be mindful of our own wellbeing and needs, as well as the wellbeing and needs of others’ — and ultimately, what are the most effective tools to reach people individually.
The MV Hotline number is 1-888-350-3051.
