Chicago Unites for Annual Out of the Darkness Walk, Raises $700k to Prevent Suicide
Chicago residents came together at Montrose Harbor on a chilly morning to show their support for suicide prevention in the annual Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk. The event, organized by the Illinois Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, aimed to bring hope and save lives. Thousands of participants gathered to raise over $700,000, with a considerable portion going towards vital research.
Research in the field of suicide prevention has given rise to treatments known to many, such as ketamine and cognitive behavioral therapy. These advancements have played a crucial role in saving lives and providing hope to those affected by suicide. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that someone dies by suicide every 11 minutes.
This issue has hit the Chicago Police Department particularly hard, as seven officers tragically took their own lives in 2022. Their deaths mark a sharp increase compared to the previous two years combined. Superintendent Larry Snelling of the Chicago Police Department offers his unwavering support to those in need, emphasizing the importance of seeking help.
Participants in the walk included individuals honoring their loved ones lost to suicide. Chris Allard, who lost his brother Jon to suicide in 2018, stressed the significance of having open and honest conversations about mental health. Breaking the stigma surrounding the topic can potentially save lives.
Maggy Kucera, a suicide attempt survivor, delivered a message of love and hope to those struggling. She highlighted the importance of asking someone if they are contemplating self-harm and creating a safe space for conversation. Kucera, along with others who have faced similar experiences, encourages those in despair to recognize that there is light, love, and hope awaiting them.
The Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk serves as a powerful platform to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention. By coming together as a community, Chicago residents are making a difference, creating hope, and working towards a future where lives can be saved. The event highlights the urgent need to address suicide as a societal issue and encourage open dialogue about mental health.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, remember that help is available 24/7. You can call the Suicide And Crisis Lifeline at 988. Let us continue to support one another and break the silence surrounding mental health challenges. Together, we can make a positive impact and save lives.
