The Niigata Prefecture Welfare and Health Department’s Disability Welfare Division is working on the dissemination and awareness of “Gate Keepers” as part of its efforts to prevent suicide, which is a challenge for society as a whole. We are pleased to announce that a poster promoting Gate Keepers featuring our club’s player, Kousuke Kojima, has been completed. Since 2020, our club has been collaborating with Niigata Prefecture to raise awareness about suicide prevention, marking the fifth year of this initiative.
■Design
To promote and publicize awareness of signs indicating the risk of suicide, Kousuke Kojima, the Goalkeeper of Albirex Niigata, has been appointed as a Gate Keeper. The terms “Goal Keeper” and “Gate Keeper” share the initials “GK,” and both roles are about being aware of surrounding changes and reaching out to others, embodying the meanings of “protecting life” and “guarding the goal.”
・The poster is B3 size and will be displayed in public facilities and public transportation in Niigata Prefecture starting from Suicide Prevention Month (September 2024).
・On September 14 (Saturday), the 30th match of the 2024 Meiji Yasuda J1 League against Shonan Bellmare (venue: Denka Big Swan Stadium) will feature an announcement using the poster design on a large video display.
■What is a “Gate Keeper”?
A Gate Keeper is someone who notices people in distress and reaches out to them. No special training or qualifications are necessary; anyone can become a Gate Keeper. If you see someone struggling, please kindly reach out to them. By engaging in conversation, you may help alleviate their anxiety or concerns.
Gate Keepers are expected to fulfill four roles: “noticing changes,” “listening carefully,” “connecting to support services,” and “watching over warmly,” but even being able to do just one of these can provide significant support to someone who is struggling (from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website).
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/hukushi_kaigo/seikatsuhogo/gatekeeper.html
■Related Contact Points
・Niigata Prefecture Mental Health Consultation Dial (24/7)
TEL: 0570-783-025 (Navi Dial “Nayami Nashi Niigata”)
We listen to your feelings and consider together the appropriate expert consultation center for resolving your concerns.
・Niigata Prefecture Website “Mental Health Consultation Niigata”
https://www.pref.niigata.lg.jp/sec/shougaifukushi/kokoronosoudan.html
We provide information on various consultation services tailored to different issues. Consultations are also available via LINE and online chat.
September is “Niigata Prefecture Suicide Prevention Month.” If you have concerns, do not bear them alone; please seek help. Also, if you notice someone around you acting differently, reach out to them.
■Inquiries
【Inquiries Regarding Niigata Prefecture’s Suicide Prevention Initiatives】
Niigata Prefecture Welfare and Health Department, Disability Welfare Division, Life and Mental Health Support Room
Phone: 025-280-5201
Reception Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays
https://www.pref.niigata.lg.jp/sec/shougaifukushi/1222711354917.html
Albirex Niigata Co., Ltd.
Business Department, Marketing Division
Phone: 025-257-0150
Reception Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays (open the day before home games)
E-mail: [email protected]