Golden Gate Bridge jumper speaks out on suicide prevention

One of only 34 people to ever survive after jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge shared his story in Columbia on Monday.

Kevin Hines is a mental health advocate, speaker, author and documentary filmmaker who dedicates his life to spreading the message of hope.

He is the only one of the 34 survivors to have regained full physical mobility after the fall, and he is now a respected voice among those who have survived a suicide attempt.

He gave a speech in Windsor Auditorium at Stephens College, where he talked about the importance of others understanding mental health issues.

“The human ability some people have to see someone in potentially the greatest pain they may ever be experiencing, and feel nothing but fear and apathy — ‘That is his or her problem, but it ain’t mine’ — I have to say I wholeheartedly disagree,” Hines said.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, more than 1 million Americans attempted suicide just last year.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can call 1-800-273-8255.