Award presented to Renate Reichmann-Schmidt for "Forbidden Suicide" endeavor
In the heart of Düsseldorf, Renate Reichmann-Schmidt has been a relentless advocate for mental health and suicide prevention for over a decade. Since 2012, she has been representing mentally ill people in the "Advisory Board for the Promotion of the Interests of People with Disabilities" of the state capital.
Her dedication to this cause has led her to become the chairperson of the association "Initiative Tabu Suicide," an organisation she founded in 2014. The association collaborates with specialized institutions in Düsseldorf to promote suicide prevention and the destigmatization of mental illness.
One of her most significant achievements is the initiation of the first memorial plaque for suicide victims in Germany, located at the Golzheim cemetery. The unveiling of the first nationwide memorial stone for suicide victims occurred in October 2020 at the same location. The cemetery now serves as a place for family members to say goodbye and mourn suicide victims.
Renate's efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2019, she was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit by Mayor Dr. Stephan Keller for her contributions to suicide prevention and mental health advocacy.
The association "Initiative Tabu Suicide" aims to make help available to people in suicidal crises and encourage them to seek it. Renate is actively involved in public relations, organizing workshops and seminars, and providing personal support to those in need via email, phone, or in person.
Sadly, suicide remains a taboo subject. According to statistics, approximately 10,000 people take their own lives in Germany each year, making suicide the leading cause of death over traffic accidents, violent crimes, and illegal drugs.
Renate Reichmann-Schmidt serves as a contact person at the Tabu Suicide association, offering a beacon of hope for those struggling with mental health issues. Her tireless work continues to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals, breaking down barriers and fostering a more compassionate understanding of mental illness.
Science plays a crucial role in Renate Reichmann-Schmidt's advocacy work, as she leverages research and evidence-based strategies to combat mental health issues and promote suicide prevention. Her efforts extend to health-and-wellness initiatives that prioritize mental health, aiming to create a holistic approach to overall well-being.
