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Stories about Out of the Darkness Walks

AFSP Volunteer Advocate Terri Lavely smiling in a white cardigan.

Training to Become a Volunteer Advocate for Suicide Prevention Felt Like a Gift

In January of 2016, I lost my 18-year-old nephew to suicide. The loss was devastating. Being an AFSP Volunteer Advocate has helped me process my own personal experiences, and be braver in standing up for my own needs, those of my family, our community, and all humans. We’re all in this together.

AFSP National Capital Area chapter volunteer Alexander Silva smiling and looking at the camera.

Bringing Hope and Suicide Prevention Resources to Veterans and Military Members

To me, AFSP is the embodiment of effective leadership. Every volunteer can use their strengths and contribute in whatever capacity suits them. It’s a privilege to help Veterans and military members connect and engage openly about mental health.

Attendees smiling and interacting at an Atlanta Out of the Darkness Community Walk

We’ve Come So Far: Celebrating the 20th Annual Atlanta Out of the Darkness Community Walk for Suicide Prevention

AFSP's Out of the Darkness Walks raise awareness and much-needed funds to combat suicide, which has long been a leading cause of death. The Atlanta Community Walk holds a special place in my heart – especially this year, as it is Atlanta’s 20th annual event.

Allison Lindley's uncle.

Redefining Strength after Losing My Uncle to Suicide

I want others to know that having difficult experiences with mental health does not mean that you are alone. I had always wanted to be a part of suicide prevention efforts, and in 2022 I walked for the first time in one of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out Of the Darkness Community Walks.

Young Taylor Ryan with her mother, Sabrina Jones.

To Make Sense of My Mother’s Suicide, I Had to Understand My Own Relationship to Mental Health

When I was 14 years old, I lost my mother, Sabrina Jones, to suicide. Up until my mom's death, I did not understand to what extent mental health could affect your everyday life, including my own.

Hannah Moch standing on stage a with a group of people at an Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk.

20 Things I’ve Learned from (Almost) 20 Overnight Walks for Suicide Prevention

In 2006, I lost my friend and eighth grade classmate Malaya to suicide. Just a year after Malaya died, AFSP brought the Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk to my hometown of New York City for the first time. This year, I’ll participate in my twentieth Overnight Walk. Here are some tips I’ve learned.

Raymond Burke running up a grassy hill to train for AFSP's Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk.

One Foot in Front of the Other: Training for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Overnight Walk in Memory of Our Son

On November 27, 2001, my wife Mary Anne and I were notified that our son Matthew had died by suicide. After months of trying desperately to find our way, we heard about a new event sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: the Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk.

New York Long Island Chapter volunteer Jaclyn Haber smiling with a white t-shirt that says, "Chief Hope Hugger."

How I Became a Chief Hope Hugger at The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walks

I first got involved with AFSP because of my own person struggles with mental health. As a volunteer I want to support everyone I can, and I discovered I could do that with something as simple as giving a hug!

Kevin Yaudes pictured outdoors smiling

Out of the Darkness Walker Spotlight Interview: Kevin Yaudes

Stigma surrounding suicide impedes the open discussion of challenges that contribute to suicidal thought and behavior, so those suffering often think they are alone. To my knowledge, the Out of the Darkness Walks are the only national, recurring community event with suicide prevention as a focus.

Catharyn Turner posing with a "Be The Voice" photo frame at an Out of The Darkness walk

Out of the Darkness Walker Spotlight Interview: Catharyn Turner

The Walks can feel like restorative meditation. They are an experience unlike any other. You’re surrounded by people who want to make sure you don’t feel alone. We are surrounded by understanding. That’s what it means to walk out of the darkness.

Kenny Cruz standing in shallow water.

Out of the Darkness Walker Spotlight Interview: Kenny Cruz

Participating in AFSP’s Out of the Darkness Walks means everything to me. It changed my life for the better, and helped give me the strength and courage to be more vocal about my personal experience. My relationships with my family and friends became stronger because I was no longer keeping my experience a secret.

Participants hug at the Overnight

Returning Home: The 2022 New York City Overnight Walk

I once wrote that The Overnight, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s flagship Out of the Darkness Walk event, was like coming home to a safe place. Here, those who have been affected by suicide can bring their grief and sorrow and joy and love.