Casey O’Neil, a staff member from TWLOHA, took the time to talk with LIB Magazine during National Suicide Prevention Week (September 5-11.) September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day, learn how TWLOHA is helping other and how you can show your support.
LIB: What bands/artists are currently involved with TWLOHA?
O’Neil: We’ve been fortunate enough to build relationships with various bands throughout our time as an organization. This summer we have The Summer Set and Tonight Alive who we are proud to call our friends. Jess Bowen, of The Summer Set, can usually be found wearing one of our tank tops on stage which is always cool to see. Our friends in Tonight Alive were gracious enough to allow us to share a bus with them this summer on tour. We’ve had a blast getting to know them and love being able to call them friends!
LIB:What are some of the ways TWLOHA is offering support to those who are struggling?
O’Neil: One way we are able to offer support is what you can see if stop by our tent at Warped Tour; our resource and information cards. Each resource card is specific to the city that we stop in on tour. In that card, you can find a list of national resources as well as local counseling centers/treatment centers. We at TWLOHA want to ensure our supporters have options when deciding to get help. If you’re unable to see us in person at an event, those very same resources are still available to you. They can be found on our website by clicking on the FIND HELP link at https://twloha.com/find-help/local-resources/ .
LIB: What were some of the most memorable experiences at Warped Tour this year?
O’Neil: The stories we heard from those who stopped by our booth were constant reminders as to why we exist as an organization. Stories from those who are 3 years sober, 9 years self-injury free, and even those who told us they’re ready to give recovery a try the day they stopped to see us on Warped Tour.
“Everyday on tour brings new conversations about hope and recovery. I’m honored that I play a role where I’m able to talk to these individuals and give them resources and education on getting the necessary help they deserve,” said Casey O’Neil.
LIB: What’s next for TWLOHA?
O’Neil: TWLOHA has various events and fundraisers throughout the year that you can be apart of!
O’Neil: We’re currently gearing up for National Suicide Prevention Week that will occur from September 5-11 in America with September 10 being recognized globally as World Suicide Prevention Day. We’ve launched a fundraiser found at Classy.org in order to raise funds that go directly into treatment and recovery programs. Jamie Tworkowski, our founder, is also doing a book tour for the expansion edition of If You Feel Too Much.
Be sure to check out TWLOHA event page and see how you can get involved in a city near you TWLOHA website
