Mental Health America of Ohio has sounded an alarm over rising suicide rates in Franklin County, prompting local musicians to collaborate with the organization to spread the message of support and solidarity.
The “You Matter” benefit concert, held at Natalie’s Grandview on Sunday night, not only drew crowds for music but also aimed to shine a light on mental health issues and their impact on individuals.
Columbus-area musicians joined forces to raise funds for suicide awareness, with organizer John Estep driven by personal tragedy – the loss of his son to suicide.
“Whether it’s ourselves or someone we know, we’re all familiar with someone struggling with mental health,” Estep shared.
Estep rallied musicians from central Ohio to support the cause, leveraging their collective talent and reach to ensure that no one feels isolated in their struggles.
“As part of the musical community, we’ve been deeply affected as well,” Estep explained. “I did what I could, which is to play music and involve others who share the same passion.”
The event featured performances by numerous musicians, complemented by resource-sharing from the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition and Mental Health America of Ohio.
“We showcased a diverse range of music by bands that have faced mental health challenges and suicide,” Estep noted.
The overarching objective is to raise awareness and dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health.
According to the Health Policy Institute of Ohio, suicide ranked among the top five leading causes of death among Ohioans aged 15 to 64 in 2022.
“We’re immensely grateful for opportunities to elevate mental health awareness and the availability of resources in our community through dialogue, empowering more individuals to seek life-saving assistance,” remarked Michelle Vargas, Director of the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition at Mental Health America of Ohio.
Reflecting on his journey, Estep emphasized the importance of reaching out for support. “When I first embarked on this, even acquaintances began sharing their personal stories. So, ultimately, it’s about extending a hand to someone,” he concluded.
