Hope is never far away in the midst of a dance—a concept the Tim Bergling Foundation knows all too well. The foundation, whose namesake pays homage to the late Avicii, recently took to social media to announce the return of its “Dance For Life” initiative.
Organized in Sweden to raise awareness of Suicide Prevention Day, which occurs on September 10th, the initiative originated last year at Lund’s Polhemskolan high school and successfully danced its way to change, garnering participation from over 120 schools. Its objective is to gather students together in song and confront the conversation surrounding suicide prevention, and all the ways in which their peers can be heard in the midst of their struggles.
"Today, on average, three young people take their lives each week," the foundation wrote. "Dance for Life is working to change this by spreading awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide."
The Tim Bergling Foundation is managed by Avicii’s family, who made it their mission to advocate for the recognition of suicide as a global health crisis through philanthropic endeavors. Spearheaded by Avicii’s father, Klas Bergling, the organization has carried out a multitude of events in the artist’s honor after his tragic death by suicide in April 2018.
The foundation’s commitment to mental health awareness extends beyond Dance for Life. They have funded research, supported initiatives that provide resources to young people in distress, and worked tirelessly to ensure that Avicii’s legacy is one of hope and change. This year’s Dance for Life aims to amplify these efforts, bringing together communities to dance, share, and support one another.
"Dance has always been a universal language of joy and connection," Klas Bergling said in a recent interview. "With Dance for Life, we want to show young people that they are not alone and that help is always available."
The Tim Bergling Foundation encourages everyone to join the movement, whether by participating in local events, sharing resources, or simply spreading the message on social media. By coming together in dance, they believe they can make a profound impact on the lives of young people facing mental health challenges.
As the world prepares for Suicide Prevention Day, the return of Dance for Life serves as a poignant reminder of the power of community, the importance of mental health awareness, and the enduring legacy of Avicii’s music and spirit.
