Fundraising Focus: LifeStance Health Employees Share Personal Reflections Inspired by the Out of the Darkness Walks

Learn different ways to give, and find an AFSP Out of the Darkness Walk near you.

With suicide prevention being one of the most urgent priorities in mental health today, LifeStance Health Foundation, an organization endowed by LifeStance that funds interventional research to address the biggest areas of opportunity in mental health, is honored to partner with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to advance mental health research.

As part of our partnership, LifeStance teammates took part in over 50 of AFSP’s Out of the Darkness Walks to bring awareness to the importance of suicide prevention across the country. Together, they honored loved ones and stood united in breaking down the stigma surrounding suicide. Through the support of LifeStance Health Foundation and LifeStance teammates, we contributed over $170,000 to support AFSP’s suicide prevention initiatives in 2025: raising over $71,000 through the Walks, in addition to a $100,000 gift to support suicide prevention research.

Beyond the numbers, what brought this partnership to life were the voices and experiences of those who walked in their communities. As part of their participation, LifeStance teammates reflected on their “why,” sharing what suicide prevention meant to them and what inspired them to participate. We are proud to share a collection of their reflections:

Ryan Bridges, Sr. Manager, Talent & Strategy: “I have personally struggled with depression and anxiety to a point where it was debilitating. I am grateful to have emerged out of that darkness to tell my story. Not everyone is as fortunate to have access to mental healthcare or has a supportive community, so anything I can do to make this struggle lighter for others is what I'm going to do."

Christina Cavallaro, Practice Coordinator: “Participating in the AFSP Walks is my way of standing in solidarity with those who are struggling, honoring those we've lost, and helping to break the silence that surrounds mental health. These Walks raise critical awareness and provide a space for education, connection, and healing. I believe that by coming together, we can create a world where no one feels alone in their struggle."

Therapist Kristina Chong, MACP, LPC, PMH-C: “The act of walking for suicide prevention is my personal way outside of work to assist with breaking stigma and shame around discussions of suicide. I hope that more people can break the mold in starting discussions with friends and family on how they are really feeling, to create community and support without shame, fear or stigma.”

Therapist Linda Cook, MA, LMHC: “This gives me an opportunity to honor my son, Seth, as well as meet other people who have had similar circumstances. It also raises awareness for other people to understand the depth of the crisis and that no one is immune to mental health crisis. In the future, I hope people will be open to talking about their experiences and letting others know that situations are temporary, and that help is available.”

Nurse Practitioner Kelly Fink, PMHNP: “Walking to prevent suicide means being a part of the solution with the hope that another parent will not have to fear or endure the loss of their child, parent, friend, sibling or anyone they hold dear. As a mother and a clinician, I hope to see easy access to immediate care be a reality in the future.”

Lacey Gee, Lead Practice Coordinator: “Knowing individuals who have had suicidal thoughts, or attempted or died by suicide hurts my entire being. Every person deserves a chance to feel fully loved and heal from the pain. I hope the future has easy access to care for mental health and more understanding within the country about how mental health is just as important as physical health. There is no shame in needing support with emotions or life events. In fact, it is extremely brave.”

Learn how your organization can join our community of corporate partners here.

Learn more about AFSP’s Out of the Darkness Walks here.