1K Z1E J3 – The Municipality of Voorschoten is engaging with residents on the topic of suicide

On October 7, the municipality of Voorschoten will kick off the 1K Z1E J3 (I See You) campaign, an initiative aimed at breaking the taboo surrounding discussions about suicide and mental health issues. On that day, Councilman René Zoetemelk will sit down for a conversation with a resident experiencing suicidal thoughts on a bench in Voorschoten. The goal of this conversation is to truly see one another and learn from each other what can be done to help one another.

Benches bearing a gold-colored plaque can now be found throughout Voorschoten. These plaques are intended to help residents start a conversation with a fellow resident about suicide and mental health issues. Because the material used for park benches makes them easy to screw onto, the plaques are mainly found in Voorschoten’s parks, but any bench in the village can serve as a suitable spot for a meaningful conversation together.

Taboo

There is often a taboo surrounding conversations about suicide. However, having a conversation can be a relief and mark the beginning of a solution. Anyone can have this kind of conversation; it may feel nerve-wracking, but it certainly isn’t difficult. You can talk to each other at home, at work, in a café, while walking the dog, over the phone or online, or simply outside on a park bench.

More information

1K Z1E J3 (I See You) helps people who want to learn more about how to start a conversation. Watch the interviews in which author and host Özcan Akyol talks with well-known Dutch figures via 113 Suicide Prevention and take the free online training at .

Suicide prevention is a team effort, and it starts with truly seeing others!