Soaring rates of suicide and mental health disorders have created one of our gravest current public health crises. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, we were facing “an epidemic of loneliness.” According to Crisis Text Line’s United in Empathy 2021 research report, depression and anxiety are the two most frequent conversation topics and suicide is the fourth. Each year, on September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) focuses attention on the issue, reduces stigma and raises awareness among organizations, government, and the public. Our goal is to help support this worldwide commitment that suicide can be prevented. 

This year, for World Suicide Prevention Day, we’re proud to partner with Gears of War to increase access to mental health support for the Xbox community and beyond. The Coalition, a Canadian game studio owned by Xbox and the developer of Gears of War, is making a multi-year commitment to donate 1% of net revenue from all Gears of War games and merchandise, and 100% of net revenue from Never Fight Alone merchandise, to organizations working to prevent suicide and combat loneliness. We’re proud to be The Coalition’s first partner. 

Gears of War has always stood for belonging. Themes of loss, grief, trauma, and even suicide have been featured heavily in the games. This is why on the eve of World Suicide Prevention Day, the message and promise is simple: Never Fight Alone.

“In 2021, we had 1.3 million conversations with texters who needed help with issues like anxiety, depression and suicide. We’re honored to partner with The Coalition & the Gears of War franchise to increase access to mental health support and suicide prevention services. Partnerships like this are so critical to addressing the mental health crisis in America and reaching our vision for an empathetic world where nobody feels alone.” said Dena Trujillo, CEO at Crisis Text Line.

Here are a few ways you can get involved:

• • Wear your support with the 2022 Never Fight Alone benefit tee from the Xbox Gear Store or Game Planet and Gamers in Mexico. Designed by artist Luke Preece, all proceeds from the purchase of this special edition tee will go directly to Crisis Text Line. You can purchase a t-shirt here.
  • Join the conversation about suicide prevention, by resharing this post from @GearsOfWar and follow along with #NeverFightAlone.
  • Microsoft Rewards members in the United States can earn and donate points this weekend through Sept. 18 to Crisis Text Line by playing Gears of War. Download the Microsoft Rewards app on Xbox to earn points and donate today. 

If you are struggling to cope, you are not alone. There are people here to help you. If you need support, text PAUSE to 741741 or WhatsApp at (443)-SUPPORT to reach a volunteer Crisis Counselor 24/7.